Apni Pathshala

How a small digital hub is transforming rural education in Haryana? (An Inspiring Journey)

Students and teachers at Apni Pathshala Digital Library in Haryana, promoting digital education in rural areas.

What does it take to break age-old barriers and still bring the gift of education to hundreds?Sometimes, just one determined woman, a vision, and a village. This is the story of how one small digital education center in Haryana sparked a transformation, not just for school kids, but for an entire community. The Spark Behind the Mission Back in 2010, after teaching computer science at a college for five years, Sonubala Ma’am noticed something that stuck with her: Students had to travel 25 kilometres just to attend college. It made her wonder: why should education be such a distant dream for rural students?Why not bring computers and digital learning into the village itself? That seed of thought quietly took root. A few years later, after a short career break to raise her young children, she decided:If opportunities aren’t coming to the villages, it’s time to create them. And so began the journey of building a local computer education center in rural Haryana. Building Dreams From Scratch In 2015, she officially established her first CSC (Common Service Center). It was not just a place for government services; it was her platform to introduce digital literacy in the village. With sheer determination, she also set up an HKCL center and opened over 77 computer education centers, yes, 77 across the district! Initially, the center operated from a humble panchayat building, partitioned off to create a computer lab. It wasn’t perfect, but it was a start. She knew the government-owned building could be taken back anytime. So, by 2021, she made another bold move: investing in her own three-floor building completely with a computer training center, a digital library, and a playschool upstairs. Empowering Students of All Ages One thing was clear from Day 1: Learning could not be limited by age, gender, or background. Whether it was a school-going child, a working woman, or even an elderly villager, the doors of the digital hub were wide open. “Anyone, at any age, can learn,” she says, and she’s proven it thousands of times over. From working with PMGDISHA (Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan) to training over 10,000 villagers in digital literacy, to running special programs like Capgemini’s Passport to Education (P2E), her center became a spot for free digital education for rural students and adults alike. Today, her classroom sees kids, mothers, workers, farmers, and retirees sitting side by side, discovering the digital world together. No One Left Behind, Especially Girls But it wasn’t always a smooth journey. In 2010, rural Haryana was still down in traditions that often discouraged girls from studying, let alone embracing technology. When she first proposed starting a computer center, even her own family resisted. Her husband, working in the education department himself, was skeptical. Worse, her in-laws feared “what people would say“- the most common illness in our society! It took months of convincing and emotional discussions “Just give me one chance,” she had said. And eventually, they did. Today, ironically, the same people proudly introduce themselves as “Madam’s family“, a symbol of how one woman’s courage can transform not just minds but mindsets too. Partnering with Government Schools Success didn’t go unnoticed. Soon, principals from nearby government schools began approaching her. They wanted their students, especially those studying IT under NSQF (National Skills Qualifications Framework), to get real, practical digital skills. Knowing how much even a small monthly fee could burden poor families, she decided:No student from a government school would be charged. It wasn’t about money. It was about giving rural children, especially those from labourer and farmer families, a fighting chance at a better future. Today, she has trained hundreds of students from 9th to 12th grades, many of whom had never even touched a computer before. Recognition at National Level Her hard work caught the eye of the highest levels. In 2021, Dr. Ravi Shankar Prasad, then India’s IT Minister, visited her center. Her village was declared the first “Digital Village” in Haryana, creating a historic moment! That small dream, once doubted by many, had not only survived, it had bloomed into something national leaders recognised. Challenges Faced, Lessons Learned Was it easy? Not at all. But each obstacle taught her resilience, humility, and the power of community. “If I had stayed a college lecturer,“ she reflects, “maybe only a few students would have known me. But now, entire villages greet me by name.” The satisfaction of building something meaningful from scratch is priceless. The Role of Apni Pathshala: Strengthening the Mission Seeing the potential and impact of her work, Apni Pathshala came forward to amplify the mission. When they identified the growing need for a dedicated digital learning pod, Apni Pathshala collaborated and provided computers to her center. This partnership ensured that more students could access quality technology, updated systems, and structured learning programs, all free of cost. With the added support, her center could now cater to even more government school students, especially those preparing for important exams where digital literacy was crucial. This collaboration is a testament to what happens when community-driven initiatives and organisations work together for a larger cause. Final Thoughts: One Person Can Make a Difference When you walk through the doors of her center today, you don’t just see computers and students. You see hope.You see ambition.You see proof that digital education in rural India is possible and powerful. One woman’s decision to defy norms didn’t just change her own life. It opened a new world for thousands. And if you ever doubt whether one person can make a difference, just remember her story.

Is computer learning important for students?

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If you ignore this, you’ll fall behind Let’s be real—computers aren’t the future anymore. They’re the present. Think about it. The way we study, work, shop, communicate—everything is powered by technology. And yet, many students still lack essential computer skills. This isn’t just about learning fancy coding languages or becoming a tech god. Computer literacy today is as important as reading and writing were 100 years ago. It’s not optional—it’s survival. Students who don’t develop these digital skills will struggle with higher education, miss out on job opportunities, and find themselves outpaced by their tech-savvy peers. So, why students MUST learn computer skills? And how can they start right now? The Hard Truth: Why Students MUST Learn Computers 1. Technology Is Everywhere (And It’s Not Going Away) If you think you can avoid technology, think again. Imagine trying to apply for a job without knowing how to draft a resume on Microsoft Word. Or struggling to use Google Drive for submitting assignments. Digital illiteracy is the new illiteracy. In the next few years, even more industries will automate processes, rely on AI-driven analytics, and shift towards digital-first solutions. Without being digitally literate, keeping up will become nearly impossible. 2. Computers Boost Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking When students learn to code, analyze data, or use digital tools, they’re not just learning technical skills—they’re developing problem-solving abilities that will help them in any career. Problem-solving is a skill that will never go out of demand, and technology is one of the best ways to cultivate it. 3. Expands Career Opportunities (By a HUGE Margin) Here’s a fact: 92 percent of today’s jobs require at least basic computer skills. And that number is only going to increase. Regardless of the career path, students need technology to succeed: And for those looking at high-paying careers, software development, cybersecurity, AI, and data science are booming. Even creative fields like music production, filmmaking, graphic design, and social media marketing now depend heavily on digital tools. Without computer skills, students aren’t just limiting their career options.  4. Makes Learning More Interactive and Engaging Traditional learning methods—textbooks, lectures, and rote memorization are no longer enough. Technology makes education more dynamic, interactive, and accessible. This shift isn’t just about making learning more engaging. It’s about making it more effective. Studies show that students retain information better when they interact with the material rather than just reading about it. Myths About Computer Learning (And Why They’re Wrong) Though it shocks me that even today, there are people who think there are myths associated with being digitally literate. It pains to see people still asking questions like “Why should students learn computer skills?”. So, to clear the air, let’s debunk some myths related to learning tech skills (can’t believe I am saying this in big 2025!). “You Need to Be a Math Genius to Learn Computers” Many students and parents assume that computers are only for those who are good at math or interested in programming. This is completely false. The ability to use computers effectively is no longer an advanced skill, it’s a fundamental one. “Too Much Screen Time is Bad for Students” Before you come at me, let me say something. I mean it’s true that excessive social media and gaming can be harmful, but productive screen time is completely different. Technology itself isn’t harmful, how we use it determines its value. “Traditional Education is Enough” Ok Boomer! It’s quite shocking that many still believe that as long as a student does well in school, they will be fine. Unfortunately, this is no longer true. Traditional education without digital literacy is like trying to drive a car with no fuel. You won’t get far. How Students Can Start Learning Computers Today? The Choice is Yours! As already mentioned above, ignoring computer learning today is like ignoring reading and writing 100 years ago—it’s a non-negotiable skill for success. The world is evolving fast, and those who adapt will lead, while others will fall behind. So, what will it be? Will you embrace digital learning or get left in the past?If you’re ready to start, begin with checking out how ApniPathshala is working day and night to make digital education accessible to all the children from all possible corners of our country.Let’s unite and work together to make India a digitally intelligent nation!

ApnaPC: Bringing Technology to Every Indian Home

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Let’s imagine a world where every student, teacher, and professional has the tools they need to chase their goals. Sounds ideal, right? But for many families in India, owning a computer feels like an impossible dream—something only a few can afford. At Apni Pathshala, we believe that every child deserves a chance to dream bigger. That’s why we created ApnaPC—a computer designed to empower learners, bridge gaps, and unlock potential.  Through this Q&A, we’ll explore everything about ApnaPC and how it’s changing lives across the country. 1. What is ApnaPC, and why was it created? ApnaPC is a specially designed computer created by Apni Pathshala to help learners—students, teachers, and professionals—access affordable technology. We noticed a huge problem: many students in India don’t have access to computers, making it hard for them to learn, grow, or compete in the digital world. ApnaPC solves this by providing a high-quality computer at minimal cost, equipped with all the tools needed for education and skill-building. 2. When did the ApnaPC initiative start? The ApnaPC initiative was officially launched on January 1, 2025. Since then, it has been transforming the way people in India access education and technology. 3. Who can apply for ApnaPC? Currently, ApnaPC is available to learning pods and community leaders who use these computers to teach and support others in their communities. This ensures that ApnaPC benefits large groups of learners. In the future, we plan to expand our initiative, allowing individual students and families to apply through a Google form. This form will let us understand your needs and assess how we can help you. 4. How can I apply for ApnaPC? As already mentioned above, as of now, ApnaPC is available to learning pods and community leaders. They can apply through our initiative to receive computers for their programs. In the future, we’ll introduce a Google form application process, where individuals can share their requirements and proposals to qualify for ApnaPC. Stay tuned for updates! 5. Why is ApnaPC so affordable? We believe education should not depend on a family’s financial situation. ApnaPC is budget-friendly because we want to make technology accessible to everyone. While similar computers cost ₹30,000–₹40,000, ApnaPC is offered at a much lower price with no rental fees. 6. What’s inside an ApnaPC? ApnaPC is more than just a computer—it’s a complete setup designed for learning. Each ApnaPC includes: 7. What are the different ApnaPC models? We’ve designed two models to meet different needs: 8. What tools and apps come with ApnaPC? ApnaPC comes preloaded with amazing tools to make learning exciting: 9. How is ApnaPC helping India’s digital growth? India’s biggest challenge is bridging the gap between urban and rural education. By making technology affordable and accessible, ApnaPC is: 10. How durable is ApnaPC? ApnaPC is built to handle tough conditions.  11. What is Apni Pathshala’s ultimate vision? Our vision is to bring digital growth and literacy to every corner of India. We want to ensure that no student or learner is left behind because of a lack of resources. Through ApnaPC, we hope to build a future where technology is accessible, education is inclusive, and every dream has a chance to come true. 12. What’s next for ApnaPC? We’re constantly working to make ApnaPC better and more accessible. Our future plans include: 14. Why should you choose ApnaPC? ApnaPC is not just a computer, it’s a tool for empowerment. Here’s why it’s the right choice: Be Part of the Change! ApnaPC is more than a product—it’s a mission to create opportunities, break barriers, and bring technology to every Indian home. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or community leader, ApnaPC is here to help you achieve your dreams. Contact Apni Pathshala to start your journey today with ApnaPC! Together, we can build a brighter future for India.

Apni Pathshala 2.0: Innovate. Educate. Elevate

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What if we told you there’s a way to bring education to even the most remote communities? A way to make those kids learn coding who don’t even know how to start a computer? A way to help people build skills and become self-reliant? Sounds amazing, right? Well, that’s exactly what Apni Pathshala 2.0 is all about! If you’ve heard of the original Apni Pathshala, you already know it has done amazing work in connecting underprivileged communities with education. But Apni Pathshala 2.0 takes things to the next level. It’s bigger, more organized, and, most importantly, ready to create a lasting impact. Want to know what makes this initiative even more special?  What’s Apni Pathshala 2.0 All About? In simple terms, Apni Pathshala 2.0 helps small learning centers, called learning PODs, become powerful hubs of knowledge and digital skills. Over 15 months, these PODs get all the tools and guidance they need to teach students, build websites, and eventually become self-sustainable.  Why “2.0”? What’s New? When we first started, Apni Pathshala focused on teaching and sharing updates from PODs. But we realized something important: these learning PODs needed a structured plan to grow and make lasting impact. So, with Apni Pathshala 2.0, we’ve added clear phases, practical goals, and proper timelines. By the end of each phase, we’ll have a proper understanding of each pod’s development and progress. This isn’t just about education anymore, it’s about creating lasting change. Each POD gets personalized support, a step-by-step roadmap, and the tools to make real progress. What’s the Purpose, Goals & Vision? Purpose. First things first, the purpose of Apni Pathshala 2.0 is to create self-sufficient learning centers, known as learning  PODs, across India. These are spaces where people can learn digital skills, develop practical abilities, and access education to improve their lives. Goals To achieve this purpose, we’ve set some clear, actionable goals: These goals aren’t just boxes to tick, they’re the foundation of a movement to bring learning and growth to places that need it the most. Vision Now, let’s talk about the dream we’re chasing. We are chasing a future where every community in India has access to a self-sustaining learning center. These centers bridge the gap between those who have access to technology and education and those who don’t. Our vision is to: The Journey: 4 Exciting Phases Phase 0: Getting Started Timeline: Flexible (You decide when you’re ready!)This is where it all begins. We’ll start laying the foundation for your POD’s success. Here’s what happens: By the end of Phase 0, your POD will be equipped and confident to kickstart Phase 1! Phase 1: Building Strong Foundations Timeline: 3 monthsThis phase is all about setting a strong base for your students and POD activities. By the end of Phase 1, your students will be certified in digital skills, and your POD will have a solid online presence! Phase 2: Making Websites Timeline: 3 monthsNow it’s time to take things to the next level. Here the students will learn to create their very own websites! By the end of Phase 2, your students will have real-world skills, and your POD will be quite interactive with all these activities! Phase 3: Independence and Sustainability Timeline: Open-endedThis phase is all about making sure your pod becomes self sustainable and can work with/without you. So that you can watch your POD work and grow independently. By the end of Phase 3, your POD will be fully self-reliant, with a strong community presence and sustainable growth plan! Why Does This Matter? Not everyone has access to good education or technology. Many communities are left behind because they lack resources. Apni Pathshala 2.0 changes this by: The best part? More than learning, it’s about creating opportunities, building independence, and giving people hope. What Happens After Apni Pathshala 2.0? Once Apni Pathshala 2.0 completes its mission of guiding 50 learning PODs through structured phases, don’t you think that journey ends just like that. Over the first six months, PODs move through Phases 0, 1, and 2, with constant support from Apni Pathshala coordinators. The goal is to make sure every POD has the foundation and tools to grow. When a POD reaches Phase 3, it steps into independence. This means they’re ready to operate on their own, managing resources, teaching skills, and staying sustainable without needing external help. While these PODs are moving towards self-sufficiency, the team behind Apni Pathshala is already focused on setting up new PODs. These new learning hubs will go through the initial support stages and eventually join Apni Pathshala 3.0, continuing the cycle of education and empowerment. The process ensures a balance i.e. existing PODs would work independently, while new PODs are nurtured and onboarded. It’s a sustainable system that allows continuous growth and a broader reach. Apni Pathshala 3.0 will take things further, scaling up the network of PODs, mentoring new ones, and creating lasting change. With each new step, the vision of empowering communities through education becomes more real. How Can You Help? This journey isn’t something we can do alone. Whether you’re a teacher, a community leader, or someone who just wants to make a difference, you can play a role. Spread the word, volunteer, or simply support the mission. Together, we can bring the power of education to every corner of the country. Yes, Apni Pathshala 2.0 is about education but more than that it’s about changing lives. This isn’t just a program, it’s a movement. And you can be a part of it.So, what do you say? Let’s Innovate. Educate. Elevate. together!

Dr. Aniruddha Malpani’s Vision: Transforming Education with Apni Pathshala

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In a world where education has become just another business, Apni Pathshala’s MD, Dr. Aniruddha Malpani stands as a light of innovation and purpose. Known for his commitment to reshaping learning, Dr. Malpani recently met with the Apni Pathshala team, leaving them with priceless ideas to ignite self-growth and elevate their mission. This meeting wasn’t just an exchange of ideas, it was a transformative session that inspired the Apni Pathshala team to think bigger and aim higher. Who is Dr. Aniruddha Malpani? Dr. Aniruddha Malpani is an IVF specialist and an entrepreneur who believes in making education accessible and empowering for everyone. He runs the Malpani Infertility Clinic in Mumbai, helping couples fulfil their dream of becoming parents. Beyond medicine, he’s passionate about education and founded Apni Pathshala, which sets up community learning centres to provide digital literacy to kids.  Dr. Malpani’s focus is on practical, self-directed learning that goes beyond textbooks. Through this, he aims to equip children with skills for the future, like coding and digital literacy. He also supports innovative startups as an angel investor, driving change in education, healthcare, and beyond. All about the meeting! The meeting kicked off with a warm introduction to the Apni Pathshala team, where each member shared their unique roles and aspirations for the initiative. Dr. Malpani, known for his approachable and enthusiastic nature, listened carefully, eager to help the team move towards creating meaningful impact. The conversation quickly shifted into an engaging discussion about the future of education. Dr. Malpani shared practical ideas for creating learning environments that not only improve outcomes but also develop curiosity and creativity. His vision focused on making education more personal and empowering for students, leaving the team inspired and ready to take bold steps in this cause. Some special insights from Dr. Malpani Creating Safe Learning Spaces “Learning happens where there’s safety.” This simple yet powerful belief drives Dr. Malpani’s educational philosophy. He emphasises that students grow when they feel safe to ask questions, make mistakes, and explore freely without fear of judgement. It’s not just about physical safety but emotional well-being, too- an environment where students feel valued, respected, and encouraged to express themselves openly. This approach fosters not only academic success but also a deeper connection to the joy of learning. The FLIP Learning Model Dr. Malpani also discussed some progressive education solutions. He introduced the team to the flipped learning model, a dynamic shift from traditional teaching. In this approach, students first engage with educational materials independently- through videos, readings, or interactive tools, before class. Classroom time is then used for discussions, problem-solving, and applying concepts in practical scenarios. This model empowers students to take charge of their learning, sparking curiosity and critical thinking. This approach transforms passive learning into an active, student-driven experience. Dr. Malpani’s focus on the FLIP model highlights his commitment to increase classroom impact and inspire lifelong learners. The Power of “Why” “Before you solve a problem, ask why it exists,” Dr. Malpani advises a principle that goes beyond education. This mindset ensures that solutions address root causes, not just symptoms.  Teaching students to ask “why” develops a problem-solving mindset, helping them understand the world in a better way. Whether in the classroom or life, this philosophy empowers learners to seek deeper insights and build meaningful solutions, creating a culture of exploration and innovation. Dr. Malpani’s vision for education is about more than teaching. It’s about inspiring a lifelong passion for learning and equipping students with the tools to shape a better future. Empowering learning pods and its students Dr. Malpani envisioned a future where every learning pod and its students could proudly showcase their unique learning journeys through their own websites. Imagine each pod having its own website filled with stories, projects, and reflections saving their growth and inspiring others to learn and dream bigger. These platforms wouldn’t just empower the students involved but also create a vibrant online community of learners who could connect, share ideas, and celebrate their progress. This will also promote the importance of digital literacy among the viewers. Every student’s journey is unique, and by encouraging them to document and share their experiences, educators can help them take ownership of their learning. It’s about more than just showcasing achievements, it’s about inspiring others and developing a culture where growth and creativity are celebrated together. Parental involvement and community microschools Dr. Malpani believes parents play a vital role in education and promotes community microschools as a way to transform learning. He no longer wants to live in the old traditional educational setup. Instead, he gives major focus on progressive education solutions like community microschools. These small, local schools involve parents directly in the education process, offering personalised learning opportunities for students. By focusing on smaller, supportive environments, community microschools provide a flexible alternative to traditional schools. This promotes creativity and deeper connections within the community. Funding with Purpose Dr. Malpani’s commitment to impactful education is evident in his offer of up to ₹1 lakh for projects that drive meaningful growth. However, he emphasises the importance of charging for services rather than offering them for free, as people tend to value what they invest in. He follows the philosophy of letting people invest in their growth. This highlights his belief in sustainable education models where both effort and financial contribution create lasting value. Action-Driven Leadership Dr. Malpani inspired the team with his call to action: avoid HIPPO (Highest Paid Person’s Opinion) and focus on taking bold steps. Instead of waiting for approval, he encouraged the team to learn by doing, promoting the philosophy of “See 1, Do 1, Teach 1.” By observing and sharing knowledge, educators not only grow themselves but also spark learning across their networks. This experiential learning approach empowers educators to lead by example and build a culture of continuous improvement. Importance of This Meeting For the Apni Pathshala team, this meeting wasn’t just about gaining insights, it was more about being challenged to think bigger. Dr. Malpani’s guidance

From Learner to Leader: Life of a student in Mumbai

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Aniket’s story is a powerful reminder of how education can change lives. Growing up in the busy streets of Virar, Mumbai, he had little access to technology. His neighbourhood was full of children from underprivileged communities, struggling to get the kind of skills that could set them up for a better future. As he was reaching the end of his school life, he realised he was about to finish without getting that digital literacy which is currently ruling the world. His dreams seemed limited.  But here’s the twist- Everything changed when he came across ApniPathshala! ApniPathshala’s Learning Pod ApniPathshala, in collaboration with the Narayan Chandra Trust, set up a learning pod in Virar with one clear goal: to teach digital skills to children from underprivileged backgrounds. It wasn’t an easy task. Before this program, many of these kids had never even touched a computer. Their schools didn’t have computer labs, and most parents didn’t see the value in digital education. They believed it was only important after completing regular schooling. But thanks to Apni Pathshala’s learning pod, this notion changed. That place quickly became a safe space for students like Aniket, offering hope and a path to a brighter future. Aniket initially joined to learn basic computer skills. Just that. But soon, under the guidance of teachers like Pankaj Baranwal Sir from BeyondExams, Aniket’s learning took off. His rapid progress showed how quickly someone can grow when given the right tools and support. From Learner to Leader Aniket wasn’t just a fast learner, he quickly became a role model for other students. His curiosity and dedication stood out. In a short time, he w ent from being a student at the learning pod to helping run the very classes that had changed his life. His transformation from a shy student with little digital literacy to a confident manager is truly inspiring. And this is what ApniPathshala aims at. Things like this make us emotional, proud and happy at heart! Now, Aniket plays a big role in making sure the classes run smoothly. He helps other students understand the digital tools, making the learning environment welcoming and supportive. ApniPathshala’s approach, which encourages students to ask questions and explore freely, helped Aniket to go on. Unlike the traditional classrooms, where discipline overshadows creativity and often children are not able to raise their voice or ask questions, there are no strict rules here at our learning pod. We rather focus on curiosity and self-learning, which has been key to the success of students like him. The Digital Education Revolution The learning pod in Virar isn’t just about teaching kids how to use computers- it’s about building a culture of digital literacy in a place where technology has been hard to access. Here, at this learning pod, the management charges a small fee of ₹100 to ₹200 per month, making sure that even the most underprivileged students can get a top-quality digital education. Making sure that money can never cause any hurdle in any child’s dream to succeed. At the pod, students aren’t just learning the basics. They’re exploring advanced topics like game development, web design, digital marketing, scratch programming, no-code web development, and tools like Canva, helping students gain the skills needed in today’s world. Imagine teaching these interesting skills at a place where the kids didn’t even know to use a mouse. Fascinating, right? Talking about Aniket, these skills changed his life. He went from having no digital knowledge to becoming skilled at using tools like Canva, and now he even helps other students on their learning journeys. His story shows exactly what ApniPathshala aims to achieve with every student who comes to come. Overcoming Challenges On your way to success, challenges are bound to come- that’s an inevitable fact. But, the way we overcome those hurdles is a true test of our perseverance. And, must i say that Apnipathshala passed that test with flying marks. In the beginning, many parents in the area were sceptical about the value of digital education. Nearly 60% of parents believed that their children should only focus on traditional schooling until they completed the 12th grade. Convincing parents to invest in their children’s digital education was a significant challenge. Many of them also couldn’t afford to buy computers, which made the learning pod even more essential. But the management didn’t give up. To encourage participation, they offered students opportunities to volunteer and manage classes without charging fees. This gave students a chance to prove their worth and showcase how valuable digital education could be. Slowly but steadily, the mindset began to shift, and more students started enrolling. A Future Filled with Opportunities Today, ApniPathshala has touched the lives of thousands of students in the Virar area. On any given day, the pod accommodates 100-150 students who come in for flexible classes that work around their school and college schedules. The students aren’t just getting digital literacy, they are being prepared for the future. Moreover, to give the students practical exposure, pod also provides them with internships, freelancing opportunities, and a platform to showcase their talent. Just like Aniket, who now helps manage the growing number of students and has become a mentor to many. He assists in classes that cover everything from basic computer skills to advanced courses like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Also, every Saturday, the pod hosts personality development sessions where students practise presenting in front of others, learning public speaking, and building confidence. The Emotional Impact Aniket’s story is just one of many, but it’s filled with sheer hope and transformation. His journey from a curious learner to a confident mentor shows that with the right opportunities, anyone can succeed, no matter their background. ApniPathshala has played a crucial role in this transformation. Children who once had no access to technology are now digitally skilled, independent, and ready to face the world. Aniket’s story serves as a source of inspiration for other students, who will follow in his footsteps, equipped with the

A Guide to Launch Your Learning Pod with Apnipathshala

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Welcome to the journey of launching your very own Learning Pod with ApniPathshala! With over 50 pods launched and running throughout India, we are here to support and encourage you to start your own pod. So that you can make a change in your community and create an impactful educational environment. Even if you are a passionate educator or an individual who wants to make a difference in their community, we will help you launch your very own POD. Who Should Launch an Apni Pathshala Pod? So, who’s the right person to start one of these pods? Honestly, if you care about education and want to make a real difference in your community, this could be a great fit for you. You don’t have to be a tech whiz or an education expert. What you really need is the passion to help kids in your area get a better education Maybe you’re a community leader, a teacher, or just someone who’s got a bit of extra space and a big heart. If you’ve got a room in your house, a community centre, or even a classroom that’s not being used, you’ve already got a good start. Apni Pathshala provides everything else—the computers, the learning plans, and the support. All you need to bring is the desire to make a difference. What are the requirements to open the pod? First things first—let’s talk about the space you’ll need. To launch a successful Apni Pathshala pod, you’ll need a room that’s at least 20 feet by 10 feet. This isn’t just about fitting in the equipment; it’s also about creating an environment where students can learn comfortably. Think of this space as the heart of your pod—a dedicated area where computers, learning, and inspiration all come together. Next up is the infrastructure—basically, everything you need to keep the pod running smoothly.  Finally, let’s talk about the people who will make this pod come to life. By meeting these requirements, you’ll be setting the stage for a successful and impactful learning pod.  Application Process for Launching an Apni Pathshala Pod Steps to Apply for Launching a Pod 3.Wait for a Response: After you share the email, the team will take some time to review it. They receive a lot of applications, so be patient. Documents and Information Required for Application Before you start filling the application, it’s a good idea to gather some important documents and details. Here’s what you’ll likely need: – Proof of Ownership or Lease: You’ll need to show that you have a dedicated space available for the pod. This could be a room in your house, a rented space, or a community center. – Basic Infrastructure Details: Be ready to provide information about the room’s size, the number of electrical sockets available, and your internet connection speed. Remember, they require a minimum of 10 MBPS. Expected Timelines and Approval Rates Now, here’s the part where patience comes in. Apni Pathshala gets tons of applications each month, so it can take some time to hear back. Typically, they approve about 1 out of every 5 applications, so while there’s a bit of competition, don’t get discouraged! Once you submit your application, expect to wait a few weeks for a response. If your application is approved, you’ll move on to the next steps, like setting up your pod with the equipment they provide. Contact Details and Support for Application Queries Got questions along the way? No problem! Apni Pathshala is there to help. You can reach out to them through their official website’s contact page or email them directly. If you’re stuck on a particular part of the application or just want to make sure you’re on the right track, don’t hesitate to ask for help. They’re just as invested in your success as you are. Setting Up Your Pod Receiving Equipment Once your application is approved and you’re ready to launch your Apni Pathshala pod, the first step is receiving all the necessary equipment. This is an exciting moment because it’s when everything starts to feel real. Here’s what you can expect to receive:    – 10 Selligion Praho 2 Computers    – 10 Monitors    – 10 USB Webcams     – 10 Wired Keyboards and Mic:     – 10 Wired Headphones This equipment is designed to create a complete, functional learning environment where students can access the best educational resources available.    – 12-Month Usage: The equipment provided by Apni Pathshala is on loan for a 12-month period. During this time, it’s your responsibility to keep everything in good working order. This means regular maintenance, careful handling, and ensuring that the equipment is used solely for educational purposes.    – Equipment Care: Apni Pathshala expects you to take good care of the equipment so that it can be used by other pods after your 12-month period. Any misuse, such as overclocking or using the computers for non-educational activities, could result in penalties or the early removal of the equipment. By following these guidelines, you help ensure that the equipment can continue to benefit students long after your pod’s initial year of operation. Conclusion As we wrap up, let’s take a moment to reflect on the incredible benefits and impact of launching an Apni Pathshala pod. By creating a space dedicated to learning, you’re not just providing students with access to computers and the internet—you’re opening doors to a brighter future. These pods are more than just rooms filled with equipment; they are hubs of opportunity where children from underserved communities can explore, discover, and grow. Don’t hesitate—take that step today. Your community is ready for this, and with your help, we can build a future where every child has access to the education they deserve. Let’s make it happen, together.