The Akshar Foundation has introduced an innovative model for sustainable education in Assam, India, which has earned international recognition. By transforming the way underprivileged children access education, Akshar is providing them with the tools to combat poverty, improve literacy, and ensure a brighter future. The foundation’s flagship initiative, Akshar Forum, presents a unique solution by allowing students to pay their school fees using plastic waste, which has garnered attention from high-profile organisations including the United Nations Environment Program, the World Economic Forum, and the Prime Minister of India.
Akshar Forum: A Groundbreaking Initiative
Akshar Forum is much more than a school, it is a platform for addressing complex social issues through education. Under the “Learning and Earning” initiative, students are given the opportunity to earn money by working within the school, which reduces the need for them to seek hazardous employment outside. This model has allowed students, some of whom previously worked in mines, quarries, or factories, to remain in school and further their education.
Students at Akshar Forum engage in activities such as tutoring younger students, growing food, recycling plastic, providing first aid, and even building school infrastructure. In return, they earn income that supports their education, allowing them to continue learning without financial barriers.
Rooted in Gandhi’s Philosophy
The foundation’s approach is inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s Nai Talim philosophy, which advocates for hands-on learning that blends practical work with academic knowledge. This holistic model helps students develop a variety of skills that are essential for personal growth and community development. Akshar Forum encourages a new generation to become more resourceful, self-reliant, and ready for the workforce, all while addressing critical social issues like child labor and early marriages.
Impact and Achievements
The success of Akshar Forum speaks for itself. Since its inception, the model has significantly reduced dropout rates, child labor, and child marriages in the region. The foundation’s approach has improved literacy levels and enhanced employability, helping students to break the cycle of poverty. By ensuring that education remains accessible, Akshar has also contributed to community development in a sustainable way.
This initiative has received numerous accolades, including awards from the Earth Day Network and the University of Oxford. The model’s success has attracted attention from both domestic and international stakeholders who are eager to see this model replicated across India.
Expansion Plans: Reaching More Schools and Students
The Akshar Foundation is now focused on expanding its successful model to 55 government schools across three states in India, with an ambitious goal of reaching 100 schools by the following year. Each of these schools will be equipped with cutting-edge tools for sustainable learning, including solar-powered classrooms, tablet-based education, and workshops for plastic recycling.
In addition, students will participate in organic farming programs and receive vocational training in areas such as nursing, carpentry, and electronics repair. Older students will also mentor younger students, providing free tutoring to help ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed.
A Call for Support
Akshar Foundation’s mission is to transform government schools into centres for sustainable development that positively impact millions of children across India. With your support, this vision can become a reality. By investing in the future of these children, Akshar is not only addressing immediate educational challenges but also building the foundation for long-term growth and sustainability.
Conclusion
The Akshar Foundation has shown that education can be a transformative force for change, addressing not only academic needs but also social and environmental challenges. By combining sustainability, hands-on learning, and community development, Akshar is making a lasting impact on the lives of children and their families. With plans to expand its model to even more schools, Akshar is leading the way in pioneering a new future for education in India