About us

Pratham Education Foundation (Pratham) is one of the largest NGOs in India, with a track record of innovative, rigorously evaluated programs that have inspired similar initiatives across three continents. Pratham’s journey began in 1995 in Mumbai with the mission: Every Child in School and Learning Well. From the slums of India’s biggest city to today’s presence in more than 26 states and union territories, our journey has been one of learning and scale—from evidence to practice, from small innovations to systemic reforms. Pratham’s work extends from programs for early and elementary years to initiatives for girls and women, and youth skilling.

We reach 7 million children and youth in a typical year through a combination of efforts: working directly with children and youth in communities, as well as through collaborations with state and district-level governments.

Our Vision

Pratham is committed to making schools and communities future-ready where every child, youth and woman has the education, tools, and opportunities to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Our Programs

Education

From Early Childhood Education to Elementary Education, Pratham identifies education-related gaps and opportunities in each segment and develops context-based solutions. We collaborate with children, schools, families, and communities through direct programs and government partnerships.

Reach 2024-25

KC Widget Content

Activities in

26

states &
union territories

Children reached

8

through direct programs and
government partnerships

Girls and women reached

270

through mothers' groups and
second chance program

Youth reached

124

through vocational/non-
vocational courses

Stories Of Change

Step into the heart of Pratham’s mission through our Stories of Change—a collection of real-life journeys that showcase the resilience, determination, and hope of those we serve. From children building strong learning foundations to women and youth rewriting their futures, these stories highlight the transformative power of education and skills. Explore how, together with our communities and partners, we’re creating lasting impact, one story at a time.

Shabana

Once hesitant to leave his side, Shabana now sees Arhaan included and thriving.

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Harshil

Once hesitant in the classroom, this 10-year-old from Gujarat now looks forward to going to school.

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Sapna

For the 21-year-old from Uttar Pradesh, the path to independence was not easy but she did not give up.

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Shri Bahadur Singh

A teacher himself, he now mentors other teachers to strengthen foundational learning among children.

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Kruti

Kruti stepped beyond her home to empower mothers to actively support their children’s early learning.

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Arvind

Once uncertain of his own path, he now works with an MNC, shaping the futures of hundreds.

Read More

Media & Publications

Pratham-Jameel Second Chance Marks Transformative Growth and Digital Innovation

The program’s 2025 growth reflects expanding opportunities for girls and women to return to learning, complete Grade 10, and pursue new pathways.

Pratham named in top-five finalists of MacArthur Foundation’s 2025 100&Change competition.

Pratham’s selection as a top-five finalist highlights TaRL’s potential to address foundational learning challenges across communities and education systems globally.

The Power of Entrepreneurial Women

The article highlights Pratham’s Second Chance Programme and the importance of education and skills in expanding opportunities for women.

Helping Children Learn in a Changing World

The article explores how TaRL can adapt to diverse contexts while keeping children’s learning levels at the centre of instruction.

No One Left Behind: Rethinking Equity In India’s Growth

The conversation explored the role of inclusive development and transformative education in ensuring India's growth.

Universal Preschool: Is This a Dream or Can It Be a Reality for India?

in this article, Rukmini Banerji highlights India’s progress in preschool participation and the continued efforts needed to achieve universal access to quality early learning.

NEP 2020 in the Classroom, from Policy to Practice

Suman Bhattacharjea, Director (Research), ASER Centre, co-authored this article on how NEP 2020 is translating into classroom practice and strengthening foundational learning in government schools.

Rukmini Banerji Features in BW Education’s Most Influential Women in Education List 2025

Rukmini Banerji is recognised among influential women in education for her leadership and contributions to advancing learning opportunities.

Madhav Chavan in Conversation with EmpowHER India’s Anamara Baig

Madhav Chavan reflects on Pratham’s journey, the evolving NGO sector, and the role of organisations in addressing social challenges.

Teaching at the Right Level: A Promising Educational Approach for Lebanon

TaRL’s adaptation in Lebanon demonstrates how teaching based on children’s learning levels can help strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy.

शिक्षा में बेहतर हो रहे हालात का अब दिख रहा है ‘असर’

हर साल की शुरुआत में लोग ‘असर’ (एनुअल स्टेटस ऑफ एजुकेशन रिपोर्ट) का इंतजार करते हैं। 2005 से यह रिपोर्ट ग्रामीण भारत में बच्चों की शिक्षा की मौजूदा स्थिति पर रोशनी डालती आ रही है।

Pratham CEO Rukmini Banerji Featured in Outlook Business Changemakers 2024 List

What started as a local initiative in India has now shaped learning outcomes across multiple continents.

Our Partners

Other Websites

ASER
Pratham Infotech FoundationPratham Infotech Foundation