In the outskirts of Guwahati, in northeast India, there’s a school that follows Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Nai Talim, a unique concept that combines education with skill development. Unlike traditional schools, this institution, founded by Akshar Foundation in 2016, groups its students based on their skill levels rather than their age.
Skills for a Brighter Future
While traditional subjects are taught, this school goes above and beyond by teaching practical skills such as sewing, carpentry, gardening, printing, and even upcycling and recycling plastic products.
These skills not only empower the students but also help them support their families. This concept is known as ‘Earning While Learning.’ The school started with only ten children but has now grown to accommodate 110 students in classes ranging from one to twelve.
Earning While Learning
The motto of this extraordinary school is ‘Earning While Learning.’ Students actively participate in school development activities, earning points that are converted into money and deposited into their bank accounts. This unique approach encourages them to take responsibility and invest in their own education.
For example, students can earn by working on carpentry, printing, landscaping, teaching younger students, or even creating eco-bricks from recycled plastics. This not only equips them with valuable skills but also helps address environmental issues in their community.
The Impact on Students
The impact of this unconventional approach to education is remarkable. Most students at Akshar Foundation are first-generation learners, and many of their parents have had limited education. With the school’s support, these students are breaking barriers and achieving academic success.
Moreover, the school has become a catalyst for social change. It has addressed issues like child marriage, substance abuse, and gender inequality through open discussions in parent-teacher meetings. As a result, girls are choosing education over early marriages, and teenagers are breaking free from unhealthy habits.
A Future of Possibilities
The Akshar Foundation’s model is gaining recognition, and it is poised to make a significant impact on the education system in Assam. Collaborating with the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, the school is helping implement the Akshar National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 model in government schools across the state. With plans to expand to more schools, this innovative education system is paving the way for a brighter future for underprivileged children.
Conclusion
The story of this unconventional school serves as an inspiration to all. It showcases the power of education combined with practical skills and the impact it can have on children’s lives.
Students at Akshar Foundation not only learn from books but also from their experiences, making them better equipped for a brighter future. This model has the potential to transform education in Assam and beyond, offering hope and opportunities to countless children.
