According to ASER 2022, only 72.5% of rural children in classes 3 to 5 could read a Class 2-level text, and just 54.8% could solve basic arithmetic problems, reflecting a decline in learning outcomes. Infrastructure issues persist, with UDISE 2021-22 data showing that only 55% of rural schools have functional computer facilities and 37% have internet access. Teacher shortages are evident, with 20% of rural schools reporting a Pupil-Teacher Ratio (PTR) above the recommended 30:1. Additionally, dropout rates remain high at 4.7%, and only 37% of children aged 3-5 are enrolled in pre-primary education, highlighting the disparities in educational access and quality in rural India.

With so many difficulties, can the opportunities for kids in rural India ever be the same as those in urban areas? And then, imagine tribal children, especially girls.

Samanta Foundation is working to change this. They focus on bringing quality education to remote areas of Uttarakhand, supporting traditional forest dwellers, nomads, tribal communities, and other marginalised groups. Their goal is to provide 10,000 children with access to better education by 2027 through their Whole School Transformation initiative.

Samanta Foundation doesn’t just focus on access; they work to improve the entire learning experience. This includes upgrading school facilities, training teachers, and involving communities to create a supportive learning environment. Their vision is a future where every child, no matter where they’re from, has an equal chance to succeed.