Established in 1995 by Madhav Chavan and Farida Lambay, Pratham is one of India’s largest NGOs dedicated to improving education for underprivileged children. Operating in 23 Indian states and internationally, Pratham focuses on foundational learning, vocational training, and scalable educational solutions that reach millions.
Key Programs:
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Early Childhood Education: Prepares children (ages 3–6) for formal schooling.
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Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL): Tailors learning to each child’s level, not age, improving literacy and numeracy.
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Second Chance Program: Helps school dropouts—especially women—complete secondary education.
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Digital Learning: Offers tech-based content for independent learning.
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ASER Report: National survey assessing learning outcomes, influencing educational policy.
Vocational & Special Initiatives:
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Pratham Institute: Provides job-ready skills in sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and beauty, with an 85% placement rate.
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Entrepreneurship & Upskilling: Empowers informal workers and women entrepreneurs with training and mentorship.
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Read India & Pratham Books: Boost literacy and foster a reading culture with accessible, multilingual content.
Impact & Recognition:
Pratham has won several global accolades, including the Skoll Award (2011) and Lui Che Woo Prize (2018), for its innovative, grassroots educational work.
Get Involved:
You can volunteer with Pratham by applying through their website, participating in community programs, or contributing your skills. For broader social impact, you may also explore opportunities with the Unessa Foundation.
Final Note:
Pratham’s mission is proof that quality education can break the cycle of poverty. By volunteering, you can help transform lives and build a more equitable future.