Elementary Education
Introduction
Over 95% of Indian children in the age group 6 to 14 are enrolled in school. Although these children have been in school for several years, many have not acquired the foundational skills that are essential for moving ahead. The challenge is how to enable such children to acquire basic reading and arithmetic, quickly and durably so they get a real chance to complete the elementary stage in a meaningful way.
Over the years, Pratham’s initiatives have spanned the entire age range from Grade I to Grade VIII. However, much of the work in the last two decades has been with children of primary school age and largely focused on ensuring that children learn to read fluently and to do arithmetic confidently. Across all programs, Pratham believes that every child must have the opportunity to learn. To learn, it is essential to be motivated and engaged. To grow well and thrive, a child needs support not only from the school, but also from the family and the community.