Akshara Vanam: A school where students lead the way | Fusion - WeRIndia

In a departure from traditional education, Akshara Vanam school in Kalvakurti, Nagar Kurnool district, follows a unique peer learning concept.

Unlike conventional schools, there are no strict teachers enforcing homework or rigid curricula here.

This innovative school was established in 2015 on land generously donated by Madhav Reddy, and it is spearheaded by Sripathi Reddy, the Research Head and Vice President of the Vande Mataram Foundation.

Vandemataram Foundation, known for its efforts to strengthen government schools, conceived Akshara Vanam as an alternative school with a student-friendly peer learning approach.

The school’s structure was made possible with contributions from donors.

At Akshara Vanam, teachers assume the role of facilitators, guiding students in their pursuit of minimum learning abilities.

This unique curriculum focuses on real-life activities and problem-solving, aiming to foster a genuine love for learning rather than imposing it through force.

The school adheres to strict rules, prohibiting students from using phones within its residential campus.

Instead, an hour of English movie watching in the computer lab is mandated, followed by discussions.

Besides, it reinforces the belief that listening leads to speaking and reading leads to writing. Daily typing practice is also encouraged.

Akshara Vanam promotes self-sufficiency among its students. They cook, serve, and wash utensils together, even converting waste into vermicompost.

The school goes beyond academics, offering instruction in welding, carpentry, agriculture, dance, singing, and various professional skills.

Admissions prioritize students with slow learning abilities, orphans, semi-orphans, and those inclined towards peer learning.

Prospective students must pass a base standard test, and there are no fees for attending Akshara Vanam.

Upon completing all modules, students are prepared for the 10th-grade open exams. The management believes that they are well-equipped to excel in competitive exams, including IIT.

Akshara Vanam, under the Vande Mataram Foundation, underscores the need for an educational system that fosters learning through play, devoid of fear and pressure.

With ongoing research into effective teaching methods, this school continues to yield fruitful results, emphasizing that education can be enjoyable and enriching, not just a routine.

Image Credit: Aksharavanam Website Screenshot

Image Reference: https://www.aksharavanam.org/