Akshar Foundation’s pioneering approach to sustainable education in Assam, India has garnered global recognition. The organization’s flagship initiative, Akshar Forum, has been lauded by top figures such as the Prime Minister of India, the World Economic Forum, and the United Nations Environment Program. Additionally, it has received accolades from the Earth Day Network and the University of Oxford.
Rooted in Mahatma Gandhi’s Nai Talim philosophy, which emphasizes hands-on learning, Akshar Forum addresses the complex challenges faced by underprivileged children in Assam. Many of these children, some as young as 10, were previously working as child laborers in hazardous conditions, preventing them from attending school. To combat this issue, Akshar Foundation introduced the “Learning and Earning” initiative, where students work within the school to earn money through activities such as tutoring, creating learning materials, building school infrastructure, growing food, recycling plastic, and providing first-aid to both peers and animals.
This innovative model has not only reduced dropouts, child labor, and early marriages, but has also improved literacy rates and employability prospects for the students. As a result, Akshar Foundation is now working to expand this model to 55 government schools across three states, with a goal of reaching 100 schools by next year. These schools will be equipped with solar-powered classrooms, tablet-based learning, plastic recycling workshops, organic farming programs, and vocational training in areas such as nursing, carpentry, and electronics repair. Older students will also provide daily free tutoring to younger students.
With the support of donors and partners, Akshar Foundation aims to transform government schools into hubs of sustainable development, positively impacting the lives of millions of children across India. Currently, the organization is working to implement this model in 55 government schools in 3 states, with plans to expand to 100 schools next year. Each school will be equipped with solar-powered smart classes, tablet-based learning, plastic recycling workshops, organic farming, and vocational training opportunities. Additionally, older students will offer daily free private lessons to younger students.
Through the continued support of donors and partners, Akshar Foundation hopes to one day impact the lives of millions of children and transform all government schools into community centers for sustainable development.
