In college, they dreamed of helping young people, like themselves, but not so privileged, because they believe that it is education that makes a person. But they did not want to depend on their parents for the funding.

Today, this group of 30, who are all alumni of Amrita Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, and now from IT companies in Chennai and Bangalore, have launched ‘Educate and Emancipate’ , a not-for-profit NGO, that sponsors the education of promising underprivileged children.

To help them raise funds, the group has decided to capitalise on the festive season. Says Abhilash Joseph, "Buy a rich plum cake this Christmas Season from Educate and Emancipate for Rs 150 for 700 gms and your gesture will help a child get an education he or she deserves."

The NGO would like to look at education especially after Std X.  "Most children receive sponsorship till they finish their school. Thereafter, they tend to work in mills or as office attendants simply because they did not get any specialised vocational or career oriented training."

Umesh is among those who has benefited from the programme. He secured 69 per cent in his boards, and his dream of becoming an engineer is being fulfilled.

 He is doing a diploma in mechanical engineering. The money was raised through friends of Educate and Emancipate.

"We want to reach out to more children.  There is no greater gift than education. Why should these bright and talented children be deprived of opportunities for lack of money? Let's give them a chance. Give them education, give them wings." adds Abhilash.

Call Abhilash- 98866 25566 or Fahad- 99457-83307.