The National Institute for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) has recently partnered with Edutech giant BYJU’S to offer free access to tech-driven learning programs for students in 112 of India’s aspirational districts. This initiative is designed to better the education system and address the digital divide in these regions.
Access to Free Learning Resources
Under this new initiative, students from grades 6-12 in government schools across the 112 ‘Aspirational Districts’ will gain free access to BYJU’S premium learning resources. These districts have been classified as ‘aspiring’ due to their disadvantaged socio-economic status. This implies that these areas lack certain resources and opportunities commonly found in more developed regions. By providing access to quality educational resources, the initiative strives to spur improvement in these districts, which could contribute to overall human development in India.
Free Coaching Classes for Meritorious Students
In addition to the free learning resources, BYJU’S will also provide complimentary coaching classes for over 3,000 ‘meritorious’ students from grades 11 and 12. These classes, offered by Aakash Institute, are specifically geared towards engineering and medical entrance examinations. By offering these classes at no cost, the initiative serves to create more opportunities for deserving students who would otherwise be unable to afford such coaching.
The Pro-Bono Basis and Its Implications
The supplemental learning resources provided by BYJU’S under this initiative are being offered on a pro-bono basis. This means that they come at no charge or require minimal fees, thereby making them more accessible for students in the Aspirational Districts. The goal here is to ensure that the lack of financial resources does not hinder a student’s access to quality education.
Aims of the Initiative
The overarching aim of this initiative is to enhance the online education system in India and reduce the digital divide in education. The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to computers and the internet, and those who do not. By providing free access to tech-driven learning resources, the initiative aims to bridge this gap and ensure equal opportunities for all, regardless of their socio-economic status.
In summary, the recent partnership between NITI Aayog and BYJU’S seeks to level the educational playing field in India’s Aspirational Districts. By offering free access to quality learning resources and coaching classes, this initiative actively combats the socio-economic disadvantages faced by students in these districts. Ultimately, it aims to foster a more equitable education system that serves the needs of all Indian students.
