11 September 2024, New Delhi: With an aim to empower young students, Spreading Happiness InDiya Foundation (SHIF), a collaboration between cricketing icon Sachin Tendulkar (through Sachin Tendulkar Foundation—STF) and Schneider Electric India, a leader in digital energy management and next-generation automation, have reached a major milestone in their mission to empower young minds in rural areas through digital education. Through the flagship SMITA program, the Foundation has positively impacted 60,000 students across 300+ schools in India. Inspired by the success and in celebration of World Literacy Day, SHIF has committed to revitalising 500 rural government schools by 2025, aiming to touch the lives of more than 100,000 young learners across aspirational blocks of India.
At the heart of the SMITA program are ‘Digital’ classrooms, designed to bridge the digital education divide in rural areas while promoting sustainability. Till date, SHIF has equipped 300 schools with Digital classrooms powered by renewable energy sources like solar, offering cutting-edge infrastructure and virtual training opportunities, Situated in some of the remotest corners of the country. these also serve as hubs for fostering a community of ‘Green Ambassadors’ who are empowered to take proactive climate action.
Highlighting the importance of expanding digital education access, Mr. Sachin Tendulkar expressed, “The Spreading Happiness InDiya Foundation is dedicated to narrowing the digital gap by granting students access to high-quality education while also imparting the significance of sustainability. SMITA program signifies our dedication to cultivating a generation of responsible and knowledgeable citizens who will guide us towards a sustainable future. Through the foundation, we are working to ensure that every child, regardless of their location, possesses the resources necessary to thrive in the contemporary world.”
In line with this goal, Mr. Deepak Sharma, Zone President, Greater India, MD & CEO, Schneider Electric India, stated, “Schneider Electric is an impact-driven company, and education is fundamental for creating a lasting, sustainable impact. We believe that access to energy and education are fundamental human right. Our Digital classrooms exemplify our commitment to leading energy and environmental conservation to empower rural communities. We have already positively impacted 60,000 children in 300 schools and aim to transform 500 schools by 2025. We are honoured to partner with Mr. Sachin Tendulkar to educate and empower our next generation, driving actions on climate change and sustainability.”
The innovative SMITA program by SHIF is making a positive impact on government schools in 12 states like Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, including some aspirational district blocks. The Foundation is dedicated to ensuring uninterrupted learning by making education available to students in regional languages.