Listening to the Voices of Youth
VESTA Foundation of Self Discovery initiated a series of school-based surveys across Uttarakhand to better understand the challenges, concerns, and aspirations of students. The surveys were designed to provide a clearer picture of what young people are experiencing in their academic and personal lives and to help identify areas where meaningful support may be needed.
The initial findings highlighted career and future-related uncertainty as one of the major concerns among students. A significant number of students reported difficulties in deciding what they want to pursue as a future career and navigating the choices and expectations associated with their future. Financial concerns also emerged as an important factor influencing students’ thoughts and decisions about their careers and future.
Key Survey Insights & Impact
The second major area of concern was stress, with students indicating that they experience stress in both their academic and personal lives. Academic expectations, pressure related to performance, and challenges in their personal lives can make the teenage years particularly difficult for many students.
Career & Future Uncertainty
Addressing hesitation and confusion surrounding career paths, subject choices, and financial considerations impacting long-term aspirations.
Academic & Personal Stress
Identifying high performance pressure and personal obstacles that create mental strain during critical adolescent years.
Responsive Program Design
Utilizing ground-level data to create targeted mental wellness and career clarity initiatives informed by students' true experiences.
These findings provide valuable insights into the realities faced by young people in Uttarakhand. By listening directly to students and understanding their concerns, VESTA Foundation of Self Discovery aims to design and strengthen initiatives that are more responsive to their needs, helping them develop greater clarity about their future while also supporting their overall well-being and personal growth.
The survey is an important step towards ensuring that students’ voices are heard and that programmes for adolescents are informed by their real experiences, concerns, and aspirations.