Leaders in Action: Bridging the Digital Divide
HelpYourNGO is pleased to present Mr. Prem Yadav, Co-Founder, and CEO of Pratham InfoTech Foundation (PIF), in an insightful discussion on the NGO’s journey, impact, and vision for the future. Below is an engaging dialogue that sheds light on PIF’s initiatives and its commitment to digital empowerment in education.
Tushar (HYNGO): What was the founding vision behind Pratham InfoTech Foundation (PIF), and how has its mission evolved since 2004?
Prem (PIF): Pratham InfoTech Foundation (PIF) was founded to ensure that individuals, regardless of socioeconomic background, have access to digital technologies. Our mission has evolved to bridge the digital divide by integrating IT into education and equipping disadvantaged youth with essential digital skills. Since 2004, we have expanded digital literacy, fostered IT adoption in education, and provided skill-based training. Our programs include computer-aided learning for K-12 students, localized digital learning materials, and after-school computer and job skills training. Collaborating with government and industry partners has allowed us to mobilize resources and scale our impact.
Tushar (HYNGO): Could you share key milestones in PIF’s journey and the challenges encountered at different growth stages?
Prem (PIF): Key milestones include:
- Expanding digital education to 2.1 million children through Computer-Aided Learning (CAL), Digital Literacy as Life Skills (DLLS) and My e-School program.
- Training 350,000+ youth in digital literacy and employability skills.
- Receiving multiple recognitions, including the Manthan Award and “Great Place to Work” certification.
- Strengthening partnerships with corporates, government bodies, and educational institutions.
Challenges we faced:
- Initial fundraising difficulties.
- Lack of trained human resources in project areas.
- Developing scalable monitoring systems.
- Ensuring transparency among stakeholders.
Tushar (HYNGO): How does PIF differentiate itself from other NGOs in digital literacy?
Prem (PIF): PIF stands out through its holistic approach, integrating technology into education, skill development, and career readiness by offering teacher training, STEM education, and coding programs. We collaborate with governments and corporations to scale sustainably and customize programs to regional needs. Our initiatives focus on future-ready skills such as AI, coding, and financial literacy, while also offering career guidance and industry-aligned training. We employ a data-driven approach to measure learning outcomes, ensuring long-term impact.
Tushar (HYNGO): How does PIF address the digital divide, particularly in rural areas?
Prem (PIF): We tackle this issue through:
- Infrastructure Development: Setting up Computer-Aided Learning (CAL) centers in schools, mobile digital labs, and solar-powered classrooms.
- Offline Solutions: Providing preloaded digital content and TV/projector-based education.
- Community Engagement: Training teachers, educating parents, and fostering digital awareness.
- Skill Development: Offering STEM, coding, and financial literacy training.
- Partnerships: Collaborating with governments, CSR programs, and NGOs to expand digital literacy initiatives.
Tushar (HYNGO): How does PIF balance scalability with quality and impact?
Prem (PIF): We achieve this through:
- A standardized yet adaptable curriculum tailored to regional needs.
- A strong Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) framework using data analytics.
- Public-private partnerships to co-fund and implement programs.
- A blended learning approach, combining in-person and digital education.
Tushar (HYNGO): How has education evolved in the past decade, and what trends will shape its future?
Prem (PIF): Digital integration, skill-based learning, and personalized education have transformed learning. Programs like Computer Aided Learning (CAL), Digital Literacy as Life Skills (DLLS) have expanded e-learning, while STEM initiatives through Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and Code Unnati Hackathons encourage hands-on learning. The hybrid and blended learning models, rushed by the pandemic, combine online and offline education for greater flexibility, supported by learning management systems (LMS). Future trends include AI-driven personalized learning, and digital literacy programs focused on gender equity and sustainability.
Tushar (HYNGO): You have been associated with Pratham Education Foundation in the past. How does its approach differ from that of Pratham Infotech Foundation?
Prem (PIF): While both organizations aim to improve education access, their approaches differ. Pratham Education Foundation focuses on foundational literacy and vocational training, while PIF specializes in integrating technology into education and digital skill development. Pratham Education Foundation continues to focus on foundational literacy and numeracy and vocational training programs, whereas PIF expands on its legacy by setting up digital learning centers, running IT skill training programs, and preparing students for the digital economy. PIF builds on Pratham Education Foundation’s legacy by offering IT skill training and career readiness programs.
Tushar (HYNGO): Has the funding from HelpYourNGO allowed you to expand your reach regarding students trained, geographies covered, or technology upgrades?
Prem (PIF): Yes, we have launched two vocational training centers in Mumbai, training 650 youth and connecting them to job opportunities. Additionally, five school-based computer training centers in Bengaluru now benefit 1,000 students through Computer-Aided Learning and Digital Literacy as a Life Skill program.
Tushar (HYNGO): Can you highlight a key success story that was directly enabled by the support received through HelpYourNGO?
Prem (PIF):
Ranjitha: From Digital Exclusion to Aspiration
At GHP School in Sarjapura, Bangalore, Ranjitha, a 7th-grade student, transformed her education experience through computer classes. Coming from a modest background, she initially struggled but soon developed a passion for technology. Her enthusiasm extended beyond class hours, and she now aspires to a career in the field. She is grateful to PIF and HelpYourNGO for making these opportunities possible.
Indresh Kumar Shukla: A Path to Financial Independence
From a modest background in Mumbai, Indresh Kumar Shukla wanted to support his family financially. While pursuing his HSC from Mumbai University, he enrolled in the Digital Sakshar course, gaining skills in MS Office, the Internet, and employability training. His training led him to a job fair in Kalyan, where LIC India selected him for a part-time role. With this opportunity, Indresh plans to specialize in Banking and Insurance, using his skills to build a better future.
Tushar (HYNGO): How has HelpYourNGO’s due diligence process built trust with donors, and what role do you see it playing in PIF’s future?
Prem (PIF): HelpYourNGO’s due diligence and transparency processes have played a crucial role in fostering trust and credibility with donors by ensuring that funds are utilized effectively and impactfully. Their evaluation framework helps verify an NGO’s financial health, governance practices, program effectiveness, and accountability, giving donor’s confidence that their contributions are making a measurable difference.
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