In a proud moment for Odisha, 28-year-old engineer Anil Pradhan has been awarded the esteemed Rohini Nayyar Prize for his impactful work in rural education. Pradhan, the founder of the NGO Sikshya, was recognized for his innovative approaches to delivering quality education to underprivileged children in Odisha’s rural communities.
Anil Pradhan has devoted himself to addressing educational disparities in rural Odisha. Through Sikshya, he has successfully reached over 5,000 students across 20 villages, providing free coaching, digital literacy programs, and vocational training to help bridge the gap in educational access and resources. His work empowers rural students and enhances local engagement in education, addressing the specific needs of these communities through inclusive and sustainable methods.
Pradhan’s initiatives have benefited over 5,000 students, bringing learning opportunities to remote and underserved areas.
His approach emphasises collaboration with local communities to ensure educational initiatives are accessible, culturally relevant, and sustainable. In addition to traditional learning, Sikshya offers digital literacy and vocational training, equipping students with skills for personal and professional growth.
The Rohini Nayyar Prize, now in its third edition, honours exceptional contributions to rural education in India. This prestigious award includes a ₹5 lakh cash prize and a citation. The prize recognizes individuals who demonstrate exemplary dedication to transforming educational landscapes in rural areas, particularly for underprivileged communities.
Pradhan’s path to this recognition began with a pivotal decision. Originally a mechanical engineering graduate from NIT Rourkela, he left a corporate job to pursue his passion for rural education. Pradhan hails from Kendujhar district in Odisha, and his dedication to uplifting his home region has become the driving force behind Sikshya.
The award jury praised Pradhan’s efforts, highlighting his unique and impactful strategies in addressing rural educational needs.
This award is not just a recognition of Pradhan’s achievements but also a beacon for aspiring changemakers across India, demonstrating how grassroots efforts can uplift entire communities through education.
