"Breaking Boundaries: Aajibaichi Shala Empowers Grandmothers with the Gift of Education in Rural Maharashtra"

"If you want to make a woman happy, give her freedom and education." - Savitribai Phule.

Inspired by this quote, Yogendra Bangar, a passionate educator committed to improving the lives of rural communities, decided to provide grandmothers with basic literacy skills, empowering them to lead more independent and dignified lives, after realizing that many elderly women in his village had never attended school. These women, often the backbone of their families, had spent their lives helping others, but they remained illiterate and reliant on others for even the most basic duties. In 2016, Aajibaichi Shala or "Grandmothers’ School," was established in Fangane village, Maharashtra.

“Earlier, when I had to go to the bank to withdraw my pension, the staff would simply look at me, hold my thumb and thrust it on the ink pad for the fingerprint on the documents. I felt so ashamed of myself – I should at least be able to sign my name,” says Kantibai adding, “Now, when I go to the bank, they greet me with folded hands and offer me a pen to sign my name. I feel proud.”

Aajibaichi Shala's impact on the grandparents' lives has been profound. Many people have dreamed of learning to read and write their entire lives. The ability to write their names, receive messages from family members, and manage their money independently has given them a renewed sense of confidence and self-worth.

The development of Aajibaichi Shala has had a ripple impact on the larger society. Initially, there was skepticism and opposition because the thought of old ladies attending school was unusual. However, as the grandmothers demonstrated their new abilities and confidence, opinions began to shift. Families have seen the wonderful effects of education on their moms and grandmothers, and many are supportive and proud of their accomplishments.

90-year-old Sitabai Deshmukh, the oldest student in the school, told Hindustan Times, "Never in my long life had I thought I would get a chance to go to a school. When I was young, my family was poor and girls didn’t have the chance to go to schools. I have had a new life for the last year." Sitabai is often accompanied by her eight-year-old granddaughter Anushka, who helps her grandmother with her homework. Speaking to the Hindustan Times, the little girl says, "We have fun studying together." Grandmothers typically serve as role models for younger generations, highlighting the value of education and lifelong learning.

For a country like India where literacy rate for women is only 65%, where as the male rate of 82%, schools like Aajibaichi Shala have the potential to significantly improve India's situation by boosting literacy, empowering women, and encouraging communal development. By educating elderly women, these schools help to stop the cycle of illiteracy. These grandparents serve as role models for younger generations, particularly females, emphasizing that education is beneficial at any age. This can inspire families to put their girls' education first, fostering gender equality and contributing to a more equitable society.

On a larger scale, replicating the Aajibaichi Shala model to other parts of India can multiply these benefits. Education is an extremely effective strategy for poverty eradication. Literate women can better manage resources, access social services, and participate in economic activities, resulting in a decrease in poverty rates. Furthermore, educated women are more likely to raise and confront social concerns such as child marriage, domestic violence, and gender discrimination, so promoting progressive societal change. Educated women are also more likely to participate in decision-making processes within their families and communities, resulting in more equitable and inclusive government.

Finally, Aajibaichi Shala demonstrates the ability of education to alter people's lives and communities. The grandmothers at this school show that it is never too late to study, grow, and make a difference. Their experiences inspire us to believe in the ability of every woman, regardless of age, to make a meaningful contribution to society. To really understand the impact of this great project, I recommend seeing this inspiring documentary: Aajibaichi Shala Documentary. Your time will be well spent viewing these resilient women's incredible adventures and learning the great difference that education can bring.

References:

1. https://theprint.in/feature/maharashtra-grandmothers-are-going-to-school-in-pink-saris-singing-nursery-rhymes/1030022/
2. https://yourstory.com/2017/01/school-in-thane-provides-education-to-grandmothers
3. https://www.hindustantimes.com/weekend/a-school-for-grannies/story-YjcL0lYinTwrY3su3yRBLK.html
4. https://www.firstpost.com/india/watch-ripe-age-no-bar-for-these-pupils-in-indias-only-school-for-grannies-2723030.html
5. https://youtu.be/N4FHXp-_7uU?si=DzD4S0bx8DcsaeAe