How can education reach every corner, even in the face of adversity? In the serene corners of Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, where the whispers of the sea meet the rustle of palm leaves, lies Mukul Madhav Vidyalaya, a school for the village children. Being in the remote area of Ratnagiri, students walked long distances to attend school.

Already deprived of the education facilities available to children in urban areas,  the COVID-19 pandemic forced schools to shut their doors and embrace digital technologies in education. Many feared that the children of remote villages would be left behind and their education would be suspended due to the absence of technology. The students faced a daunting challenge without proper infrastructure for online learning—no Wi-Fi, no network, no electronic devices, and no access to any education infrastructure. But where there is a will to learn, there is a way forward.

Recognising the urgency of the situation, the team at MMF sprang into action. Education could not wait for better times; it was needed now more than ever. We provided the students with requirements for learning in the digital classroom era, coming up with a solution for every obstacle. When the students couldn’t attend school due to the lockdown, we brought the school to their homes through personal tablets. Their geographical location had major connectivity issues, so we built the necessary infrastructure for a robust internet connection, solidifying their access to education.

This shift in dynamics enabled students to learn new skills and explore new ideas at a faster, more efficient pace. The whole digital world is open to them. They are empowered to attend classes, take exams, conduct research, and engage in various educational activities, significantly enhancing their learning opportunities and academic progress. As the children eagerly embraced their new tablets, they stood as a testament to the power of determination and the commitment to pursuing knowledge, no matter the obstacles.