Promoting Literacy

Sri Sri's education-based initiatives focus on children of marginalized communities, who would otherwise be child laborers. The initiative includes 209 free schools in tribal and rural belts of India, benefiting almost 24,209 children. Almost 95 percent of the students in these schools are first-generation literates in their families.

literacy_1.jpg Building a Future of Unprecedented Opportunities
In October 2007, the Art of Living Foundation unveiled a joint declaration with UNICEF to further the cause of child rights. Along with making quality education accessible to underprivileged children, the Foundation also provides access to health care. Students and their parents attend regular medical check-ups and stress-relief workshops. They are also provided with free uniforms, stationery and mid-day meals.

One such rural school is located near the Foundation's international center in Bangalore. Started in 1981 with 30 students, it provides value-based education to over 2,400 children from 45 surrounding villages. 
 

Testimonials
"I come to this school from a far off village and my school provides free bus facility from my home to the school. We have a good playground and our teachers encourage us to participate in various sports? activities. We also have various other courses like computer training and tailoring. I am very grateful to be able to come here. "
- Niranjan Balakrishnan, Nagapattinam, India

"My child seldom interacted with others, but after joining the school, he is a regular boy, running around and shouting. He has gained confidence with the Art Excel Course taught at the school. He loves going there so much so that he wants to go to school even on Sundays."

- Vasanti Kulkarni, Dharavi, India