𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝗳 𝗡𝗚𝗢𝘀 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗲𝘅𝗶𝘀𝘁?

If NGOs didn’t exist, the problems would still be there; visible and measurable, but we would lack the coordinated effort required to systematically address and solve them at scale.

𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀 would continue to function, but across classrooms and communities, many first-generation learners would struggle quietly without the structured support that helps them rebuild confidence and remain on track.

𝗛𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘀 would still function, but preventive care and last-mile outreach would reach far fewer families.

𝗟𝗮𝘄𝘀 would still be passed, but many would struggle to understand or claim the rights promised to them.

𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗳 would still arrive after disasters, but recovery would lack local trust and coordination.

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀 would still grow, but small farmers and informal workers would have less collective strength.

𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘀 would still face pressure, but community-led conservation would weaken.

𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 for women would still exist, but safe and practical support systems would be harder to access.

𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗻 with disabilities would still enroll in schools, but true inclusion would lag.

𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 would still aspire for work, but structured skilling and mentorship would shrink.

This is why 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟳 𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗡𝗚𝗢 𝗗𝗮𝘆 providing visibility to the work NGOs do — often quietly, often at the margins, but critically for inclusive progress.

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when school closures threatened to create lasting learning gaps, India Literacy Project (ILP) launched the Village Learning Centers (VLC) and Vidya Saathi (VS) programs with a single, urgent goal: to stem learning loss and ensure that children in rural communities did not fall behind.

What began as a pandemic response has since grown into one of ILP’s most meaningful and community-driven initiatives. Today, we are proud to reflect on the tangible impact of these programs—and the inspiring ownership taken by the communities themselves.

Building Learning Ecosystems in Rural Andhra Pradesh

During 2021–2022, ILP established 105 Village Learning Centers across 105 villages in seven mandals of Andhra Pradesh: Gara, Srikakulam (Rural), Etcherla, Ponduru, G. Sigadam, Laveru, and Ranastalam.

Under the guidance of the Project Director, and with the collaborative efforts of Youth Club Bejjipuram (YCB), Balavikas, and the School Readiness Team, a dedicated group of seven community organizers and one project coordinator worked tirelessly to bring the program to life. Anganwadi teachers played a crucial role in identifying and selecting Vidya Saathis—local volunteers who would become the backbone of each learning center.

Another major effort involved going door-to-door to mobilize children and families. Through trust, persistence, and community engagement, children were brought together in safe, supportive learning spaces—where Vidya Saathis helped them not only catch up, but thrive.

Measurable Learning Gains

Over a nine-month period, the impact was clear and measurable. 1,466 children showed improved learning levels across Mathematics, English, and Telugu.

A comparative study conducted in 2022–2023 revealed:

• 75% of children improved their achievement levels in Mathematics

• 71% showed improvement in English

• 69% demonstrated progress in Telugu

As schools reopened post-pandemic, both parents and teachers observed noticeable improvements in children’s confidence, comprehension, and academic performance—affirming the effectiveness of the VLC/VS model.

Community Ownership: A Powerful Endorsement

As ILP transitioned out of pandemic-specific programming, funding reallocations led to a reduction in the number of VLCs from 105 to 50. What followed, however, was nothing short of remarkable.

Recognizing the value of these learning centers, local communities stepped forward to sustain 65 VLCs independently—a powerful testament to the trust and impact ILP has built at the grassroots level.

Community-supported VLCs continue through:

• 30 VLCs funded by parent support

• 23 VLCs supported by Headmasters and teachers

• 3 VLCs supported by local industries

• 8 VLCs sustained through the volunteer efforts of Vidya Saathis

• 1 VLC funded by village employees

This heartwarming development is truly a feather in our cap. It demonstrates that VLCs are no longer just ILP-run initiatives—they are community-owned institutions. This strong local foundation now enables ILP to redirect resources and attention to other villages and regions that need support.

Beyond Academics: Protecting Childhoods

The impact of Vidya Saathis extends well beyond classroom learning. They are often trusted advocates for children’s rights and well-being.

One such powerful story comes from Odisha, through our partner NGO Unified Action Council (UAC), NIMAIN. A 13-year-old girl studying in Class VIII had been engaged for marriage. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Vidya Saathis, community organizers, and partner NGOs acted swiftly.

Through sustained dialogue and intervention, the child marriage was successfully prevented. The parents provided a formal undertaking that the marriage would not be solemnized before the girl turns 18 years old, with an understanding of the legal consequences otherwise.

Looking Ahead

From bridging learning gaps to safeguarding childhoods, the VLC and Vidya Saathi programs exemplify what is possible when communities, volunteers, and organizations work together with shared purpose.

As we look ahead, ILP remains committed to expanding this model—bringing learning, protection, and opportunity to even more villages across India.

Together, we are not just supporting education—we are strengthening communities for the long term.