The Art of Living Free Tribal Schools Revolutionize Tribal Education in India

BENGALURU, India, July 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — “Education is the greatest equalizer of civilization. It has the power to strengthen the weakest of the weak, bring peace to the world and alleviate poverty. It is often seen as the only enlightened path in the pursuit of happiness.” Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a globally revered spiritual leader and humanist, emphasizes the transformative potential of education, especially for children.

In 1999, Gurudev, along with a dedicated team of Art of Living volunteers, took on the challenging task of establishing free schools in remote tribal villages of Jharkhand. What started with one school and 12 students in Ghatshila, has grown into a vast network of 1,262 free schools spread across 2,032 villages in 22 states in IndiaToday, these free schools provide quality education from kindergarten through high school to more than 100,000 children.

The Mission: To Provide World-Class Education and Promote Strong Values

The Art of Living Free Tribal Schools weaves Vedic principles and Indian culture into their fabric, creating centers where academic excellence and personal growth flourish in harmony. Students from marginalized communities are given opportunities they would not otherwise have – strengthened both mentally and physically through a rich curriculum that includes yoga and innovative learning methods. Life skills are taught alongside academics, instilling a positive outlook and a lifelong thirst for knowledge.

Changing mindsets

Despite the zero cost, many parents were initially hesitant to enroll their children, fearing the loss of a source of income. Today, these students are breaking barriers, setting new records, and bringing pride to their communities by excelling in a variety of fields. Whether they’re winning archery medals, dominating the football field, or showcasing their technical skills in robotics, these students are thriving. The schools offer extensive development opportunities, including access to libraries, sports training, and various trades; students are equipped with skills for sustainable livelihoods.

All students come from low-income families, 48% of whom are girls. With minimal dropout rates and over hundreds of new enrolments each year, the schools foster a bright future for their communities.

A student’s perspective

“I am Anil Kumar Murmu, a class 8 student at Art Of Living Free Tribal School in Hendaljuri, Jharkhand. I enjoy studying here. Apart from the academic side, we also do computer skills, robot programming, drawing, football and archery. My parents, who are farmers, are proud of my education here. I want to join the Indian Armed Forces and I am excited to study with all my teachers.”

Empowering the next generation

“I recently finished my final exams and got 84 points,” says Sunanda. Wearing a blue skirt and a checked shirt, her confidence and clear communication might lead you to believe she comes from a different school. But Sunanda is one of 3,200 first-generation rural children who have received free education through The Art of Living’s tribal welfare projects in Jharkhand.

Sima GopeAn alumna of The Art of Living Free Tribal School in Ghatshila, Jharkhand and currently working with BSF, she is a symbol of the success of The Art of Living initiatives and inspires countless youngsters. Her journey is a testament to the fact that students of these schools, with determination, can achieve their aspirations.

Teachers make the difference

“I am Sudhanshu Sahooand I have been teaching in Hendaljuri since 2018. The stimulating environment here encourages the progress of each child, which I truly appreciate. It is remarkable that children have access to a school that inspires excellence in such a remote area. I am fortunate to teach here and I thank Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for this opportunity.”

“I am Babita Pathar from The Art of Living Free Tribal School, Ghatshila, Jharkhand, batch of 2013. I teach at Kesarpur School, a branch of the same institution under The Art of Living. I thank our dedicated teachers for their hard work in providing quality education.”

Facilities and support

Students benefit from a range of free amenities such as midday meals, medical camps, well-equipped libraries, bicycles, school buses, books, computer labs, sports equipment and stationery. The curriculum includes exploring robotic programming, artistic expression through painting, precision archery, cultivating green fingers, discovering natural farming practices and more.

Cooperation

The Art of Living; Housing Finance Ltd. and the Pahel Foundation have entered into a partnership to improve educational facilities and sustainable development in free tribal schools in East Singhbhum District, Jharkhand. As a result, three schools now have fully equipped computer labs. In addition, two schools have benefited from the installation of solar photovoltaic systems, providing a clean and renewable source of energy. Transportation support is being provided to students living in remote tribal settlements, improving their access to education.

Brilliant scholars

Manu SinghA standout student of The Art of Living Free Tribal School in Khunti, Manu secured 4th rank in the recent district examinations with an impressive 92.4% in class X. Manu is a first generation student – ​​his parents never went to school.

Seven outstanding Class 7 students from the Art of Living Free Tribal School in Hendaljuri, Jharkhand, have received scholarships for the second year in a row through the prestigious JRD Jyoti Fellowship.

The winning streak

• The Art of Living Free Tribal School in Hendaljuri excelled at the State Archery Championship in Hazaribagh on September 29, 2023.
• During the HCL-ICC Inter-Camp Archery Tournament in Ghatsila on March 12, 2024:

1. Meghrai Soren won the gold.
2. Shraddha Namata won the silver.
3. Alomani Mahato won two silver medals.

• Hendaljuri football team won the second prize for second place at the JRD Foundation tournament in Tin Plate on March 18, 2024in which they compete against nineteen teams.
• Hendaljuri secured second place in the Tata Kolhan Super League football tournament, held at FTC Baraghat (Mosabani) and organised by the Tata Steel Foundation.
• Students from Hendaljuri’s 7th grade won a bronze medal at the JRD Tata Foundation Inter-School Archery Competition, a testament to their outstanding achievement.

Art of Living’s dedication to education creates a world of happiness and opportunity.

The long-term goal of tribal education is to uplift marginalized communities through education and empowerment. Teachers work diligently with students, encouraging their interests and aspirations. Through The Art of Living Free Tribal Schools, thousands of first-generation students receive the education and support they need to succeed. Of great importance is the fact that while they acquire modern knowledge and science, ancient traditions are also preserved.

About The Art of Living Social Projects

The Art of Living is dedicated to empowering individuals through a unique blend of innovative programs and contemporary techniques. The organization promotes personal and professional growth, and equips individuals worldwide with essential life skills, emotional intelligence and resilience to navigate the complexities of today’s world.

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