By Christopher Sargunam
Imagine a world where every child, no matter their background, has access to high-quality education that prepares them for a digital, interconnected future. In India, where educational disparities are deeply ingrained, philanthropic initiatives are making this vision a reality. By investing in lifelong learning and skill development, philanthropy empowers children from underserved communities with the tools they need for lifelong success and social mobility.
Early childhood education is a key area of focus. Research from UNICEF indicates that every $1 spent on early education yields a $4–9 return on investment, significantly impacting cognitive, social, and academic skills. Programs like Pratham, which reaches millions of children to improve foundational literacy and numeracy, are breaking down barriers to quality education for young learners across India. Early intervention is crucial, as it shapes a child’s ability to succeed in later education and the workforce, establishing a solid foundation for lifelong learning and adaptability.
Alongside early education, skill-based learning is transforming young adults’ lives by connecting academic knowledge with practical job skills. Philanthropic organisations such as the Tata Trusts and Infosys Foundation are bridging this critical gap by providing hands-on training in fields like IT and healthcare. While the India Skills Report 2023 notes that 47% of Indian youth are employable, only around 20% possess the specific skills required in today’s market.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 highlights the importance of vocational training, aiming to expose 50% of students to skill-based learning by 2025. This policy aligns with India’s aspirations to harness its demographic dividend and sustain economic growth. According to the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), strategic investments in youth skill development could increase India’s GDP from £2.4 trillion today to £7.3 trillion by 2030, and potentially £32 trillion by 2047. Philanthropic investment in skill-based education supports not only individual growth but also positions India for robust economic expansion and global competitiveness.
Beyond technical skills, philanthropic initiatives nurture critical thinking, innovation, and leadership abilities essential in the modern economy. Programmes supported by the Azim Premji Foundation, for instance, emphasise problem-solving and adaptability, equipping students with the skills to thrive in an increasingly digital, fast-paced world.
Philanthropy is also addressing gender disparities by supporting women in STEM fields, where they currently represent just 28% of the global workforce. Through targeted scholarships and entrepreneurial training, philanthropic organisations are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. By empowering women to excel in high-growth sectors, these efforts foster diversity and bring fresh perspectives that benefit society as a whole.
Philanthropy’s influence in education extends beyond financial assistance; it drives systemic change. By forming partnerships with educational institutions and funding impactful programmes, philanthropy ensures that students from all backgrounds gain the skills needed to contribute meaningfully to society. Sustained investments in education and skill development promise to reshape India’s future, building a skilled, resilient workforce ready to meet the challenges of a digital world.
