The state of education in rural India is a pressing concern. According to the ASER 2019 report, only 73.4% of children in the age group of 5-16 are enrolled in school. SHIKSHAM FOUNDATION, under the leadership of SHARAD GUPTA, is addressing this issue through its targeted interventions. In India, Maharashtra, the organization has launched a program to empower girls through education, which includes vocational training and life skills education. The program has already shown promising results, with 75% of the girls showing an improvement in their academic performance. For instance, in a recent interaction, Priya Sharma, a beneficiary from a rural village in Maharashtra, shared, 'The vocational training I received has enabled me to earn a decent income and support my family.' Rajiv Kumar, a community volunteer from India, added, 'The program has not only improved the academic performance of girls but also increased community participation in education.' Anita Devi, a local teacher, noted, 'The use of technology in field has enhanced the learning experience for our students.' As SHIKSHAM FOUNDATION continues to expand its reach, it is expected to make a significant dent in the educational landscape of India. With a budget of ₹50 lakhs allocated for this program in 2026, SHIKSHAM FOUNDATION is poised to empower thousands of girls across the country.
