The Social problem :

In the remote tribal areas of Maharashtra and its bordering states, the withdrawal of Hindi from school curriculam has left many communities in distress. For countless tribal children, Hindi was more than just another subject, it was the only link they had with formal education and a gateway to broader society. Now, with schools teaching solely in English and Marathi, languages unfamiliar to many tribal families, a growing number of students have dropped out, unable to follow lessons or feel included. For parents, this crisis is deeply personal, watching their children's dreams of learning and a better life slip away. Youth hoping to pursue further studies or find jobs face mounting barriers, with their vast potential left unrecognised simply due to language. This issue reaches beyond education, instilling a sense of isolation and loss, as entire communities find themselves cut off from opportunities and without a voice in an ever-changing world.

The Social solution:

Rushimela Indigenous knowledge and Scientific Education (RISE) Foundation, an NGO, is addressing the region's language barriers by carefully selecting over 5,000 commonly used tribal words, many deeply rooted in the local culture, the NGO has translated them into English, Hindi, and Marathi. This effort has produced culturally resonant language guides, making it easier for tribal communities to learn and connect with mainstream society. Over the past year, RISE Foundation has distributed these books widely, resulting in a remarkable increase in school attendance among tribal children and a return of many youths to colleges. The initiative has not only revived interest in education but has also restored communication channels with the broader world. In addition to distributing the guides, RISE Foundation provides teacher training on how to effectively use these resources, ensuring a supportive learning environment and fostering meaningful community transformation.