Ekal Vidyalaya

A non-profit organization, Ekal Vidyalya works for the holistic development of tribal and rural communities

Area of Intervention Knowledge program imparting informal primary education to the children from tribal and rural communities

Key Geography Nepal and 22 States of India

Need for the initiative

Problem • Tribal and rural communities untouched by development of the country • Lack of understanding about importance of education in life • Unfavourable topography and living condition Situation Before Unapproachable distance between government school and scattered hamlets in remote areas Gap in execution of government program

Intervention

Overview

Functional literacy program for children aged 6-14 years from remotely located villages

Steps • Identification of the area of work • Formation of dedicated volunteer team • Development of innovative pedagogy and curriculum • Taking education to the doorsteps of remotest corners

Resources

Volunteer base of teachers to develop desired innovative pedagogy and impart education accordingly Continuous engagement of students in various activities to make learning an enjoyable experience

Impact and Key Learning

Achieved so far • 58% and 52% of Ekal students in the age 6-10 years and 10-14 years demonstrate learning expected from Class II and

Class IV student respectively • Ekal students scored above 55% marks in General Awareness, better than government and private schools. • Children from remote areas gaining momentum with “Digital Ekal” • Children of Ekal Vidyalaya after 3-4 years non formal primary education are linked to formal schooling, hence leading to reduced drop outs • Value education is a major thrust in Ekal

Vidyalayas leading to a visible change in their behaviour. They totally abstain from any kind of alcohol addiction or smoking or even using abusive language

Key Learning • Continuous motivation and dedication is required to shatter illiteracy barrier • Education is the best tool to bring social change