Sudha Murty inaugurates eVidyaloka’s 'EmpowerED' Programme in Assam

Hyderabad: eVidyaloka, an NGO recently announced the launch of its pioneering 'EmpowerED' program in Assam. Inaugurated by Sudha Murty, aims to enhance digital literacy among rural students, with a special focus on empowering girls in Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBV). The program is set to impact approximately 1,200 girls across 10 residential schools in Assam, running from August 2024 to March 2027.

Ravichandran V, Chairperson of eVidyaloka, stated that the launch of the ‘EmpowerED’ programme marks a significant milestone in their mission to revolutionise rural education. He emphasised that by integrating digital literacy into the curriculum, the campaign will equip rural students with essential skills for the future, preparing them for the technological transformations ahead.

Sudha Murty highlighted the transformative potential of digital literacy in empowering rural students, to become job-ready. She emphasised that knowledge of computers, combined with proficiency in English, is crucial for securing employment opportunities today. "This can make girls independent and economically strong," she said.

The initiative seeks to tackle the challenges of limited access to technology, digital literacy, and gender disparity in STEM education through virtual teaching, enriched with culturally relevant content in vernacular languages. It addresses critical issues such as the shortage of computer science teachers, restricted technology access, and the gender gap in STEM fields. By equipping students with essential digital skills, the program fosters holistic development, aligns with key UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and enhances the accessibility of digital learning. Additionally, by training local women in basic computer skills to serve as class assistants and support virtual volunteer teachers, the program contributes to community development and empowerment.

The EmpowerED program aims to transform rural education in Assam by integrating digital literacy for students in Grades 6 to 9.

eVidyaloka has reached 1.89 lakh rural students in the last decade. It has significantly impacted rural education, reaching over 734 schools in the past year, across 14 states and 67 districts, promoting virtual teaching in over 8 languages.