Pratham, a civil society organisation that is globally recognized for its contributions to the sphere of education among underprivileged children, recently gained prominent attention. This applaudable achievement was their receipt of the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2021.
Understanding The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development
The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development holds the name and commemorates the legacy of the former Prime Minister of India. Instituted in 1986 by a trust known as the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust, this prestigious award involves an endowment of Rs. 25 lakh and a citation honoring the recipient’s efforts.
The significance of this prize is highlighted by its objectives: the recognition of individuals or organizations dedicated to promoting international peace and development; utilizing scientific discoveries to expand the spectrum of freedom and human welfare; and the creation of a fairer international economic order.
About Pratham
The genesis of Pratham can be traced to 1995 when its primary focus was operating community-based pre-schools in slums and providing remedial education to students trailing in their classes. Today, the organization has broadened its reach and impact significantly.
Pratham’s Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) serves as a robust model for assessing educational outcomes and identifying learning deficiencies. Based on a survey of around 600,000 rural Indian children, it has set a global example, being used in 14 countries across three continents.
One significant initiative launched in response to ASER’s findings was Pratham’s flagship program, Read India, in 2007. This ambitious program aims to enhance children’s learning by bolstering their basic reading and arithmetic skills.
The Reason Behind Pratham’s Award
Pratham’s receipt of the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2021 was far from coincidental. The award recognised Pratham’s groundbreaking work spanning over a quarter of a century, with its persistent approach towards ensuring access to quality education for every child.
Several factors played a role in this accolade. These include their innovative use of digital technology in delivering education; their well-crafted programs providing skills to young adults; their regular evaluation of education quality; and their rapid response to ensure continuity of learning during COVID-19-induced school closures.
The honor bestowed upon Pratham reinforces its commitment to children’s education and highlights the organization’s ongoing efforts towards making a meaningful difference in countless lives.
