It is a well known fact that India ranks pretty high in illiteracy. According to a report by the Smile Foundation, at least 35 million children aged between six and 14 do not attend school. This means that there is a serious need to educate children. On the other hand, children who come from well-off families have so much to their disposal apart from school – books, newspapers, the internet – which struggling families find difficult to procure.
‘Pushtaka Vandi’ or Book Cart, a one-of-a-kind children’s library came into the picture.
“The children’s library has books which basically ‘move around’ among centers in different villages. The books are selected to help enhance scientific knowledge and perception of the children.”
As of now, Book Cart is operational in 25 villages across four centers. More than 2,000 children and adults have benefited from this, but they are looking to expand to five more centers.
“As part of the process, we will be identifying educated youth from the community and train them to act as mentors also introducing various ICT materials that help children to enhance their academic performance.”
The project also focuses on providing key learning opportunities in a e-learning platform and also providing digital education to parents and children. The centers will be equipped with a computer with necessary accessories and mentors/trainers. These centers will be primarily owned by the community.