In a world where technology, opportunities and competition are changing the very face of the landscape every day at a rapid rate, India can’t afford the illiteracy rate it is plagued with. An illiterate will not always be in the best position to fully understand and appreciate the opportunities he can explore, immediately setting him on a back foot when compared to a person who can read, write and communicate effectively. That we have the largest population of illiterate adults (37% of the world’s illiterate are from India) is unfortunate, the literacy rate continues to be one of the major problems that a developing country like ours can’t overlook.

In the Metros and other major cities the literacy rate scenario is helped quite a bit post the economic liberalization, as people got aware of the importance of education for themselves and for future generations. However, the situation in small towns like Varanasi looks a bit bleak from far, as the town has not yet fully grasped the education wave and seems to be content with its historic and spiritual significance. Varanasi, the shores or the sacred River Ganga in particular, always had to face the ignominy of being an abode to the child labor and nomads.  

It is important that these kids be taught the value of education, so that they don’t turn vagrants or outlaws. Equally important is the way in which the concept should be brought to them, being creative to try and let them notice the efforts, lure them into taking up the classes, making the whole experience look fun, educative and informative. And that is exactly what Ajeet Singh has been doing with his unique concept of Varanasi Boat School. Floating on the pristine waters of the Holy River Ganga, the boat is school is a truly advanced and original thought, that can also be traced back to our cultural roots.

Two hours every day after school, on this boat, where the children can indulge themselves in a lot of educative ways by making use of the resources available on board. The plan is to have the Boat a unique makeover, an interior change, availability of books, cds and stationery, Desktops and Painting kits to encourage the kids to take up new hobbies, and a lot of other paraphernalia which can make an interesting and exciting learning environment of the kids aboard. For children more inclined towards playing, a lot of toys will also be made available so that they can forget all the tensions of the homework and assignments at school and indulge themselves for a while.

It is every citizen’s responsibility as to what we envision our future generations to be and provide them the best means to live our vision and make it real. Our contribution to this cause can go a long way in providing the kind of advanced learning environment to the children of our future generations which they are truly worthy of.

Do check out the website here, also to know how you can sponsor for this unique and innovative idea