Our Mission
Since 2006, Thamarai Community Education Projects have provided educational services in the most marginalized sections of the villages next to the international township of Auroville in Tamil Nadu, India. Our current projects support children and youth from these villages, through after-school projects for around 90 children. In addition, regular health care and well-being programs are provided at local schools and at work units/village centres for adults with a vision to promote health and well being for all.
Challenge
Over the years, Thamarai has worked to counter low literacy and income levels. We also work on social issues such as health and addiction – a major problem, leading to other difficulties such as debt, domestic abuse and children discontinuing education due to lack of finances. Academically, many parents are challenged with low literacy rates, they send their children for homework support, we aspire to respond to their needs as effectively as possibly using technology and extra curricular activities to continually enrich programs.
Solution
Access to educational resources and opportunities change lives. Our after-school project supports children and youth with their academics as well as personal growth. Programs include English classes, digital literacy, leadership, arts and health activities along with homework support under the guidance of volunteer facilitators. Our well being programs empower people to be more informed about their health and to adopt life enhancing practices. RTL leadership programs develop agency in people and the ability to design and implement projects that support improving their own lives and the full potential of their community.
Long-Term Impact
Our projects have been running for the past 18 years. The children who once attended our after-school projects are now college graduates and back as volunteer youth facilitators on the current Thamarai programs. The health programs have and will continue to improve the conditions of the villages as people become informed about health and well being. The programs help to reduce alcohol consumption and instead focus on building agency, community development and education.
News
Integrated Learning Space for 6th to 9th Standard
This new school year we looked to begin to more intentionally incorporate into our after-school project in Annai Nager a more holistic, experiential and integrated approach to learning. In Mother’s words, each day for children holds the possibility of so many learning opportunities; “varied, complex, full […]
Travelling Korean Arts: “A Tree and a Boy” (Non-Verbal Puppet Theatre)
At Thamarai, we have puppet-making and puppeting activities with our volunteer Mireille on weekends. With technology taking over, we wanted to bring puppetry back and show young people how it’s done by making and using our own puppets. This activity helped students build confidence, foster […]
The Joyful English Trail: Thamarai’s Expedition
The Journey of Comprehension and Curiosity by Raghu and Srisha The Joyful English program, launched in October through collaboration with ALERF (Auro Language Education and Research Foundation), aims to develop language skills in a more joyful way. Students enrolled in the program receive a Joyful […]
Basic computer application and Artificial Intelligence session with Anando and Mitali
Why AI session? The students lacked a strong foundation in basic computer knowledge and were not exposed to current technology despite the fact that 11th standard students each received a free laptop from the state government. This was particularly noticeable among the girls, who were […]
Summer Mini Camp: A Week of Fun Learning and Exploration
The Summer Mini Camp, held from March 25th to March 29th, 2024, was a lively center of activity and learning. With sessions in morning and evenings, children immersed themselves in a variety of enriching experiences designed to spark curiosity, foster growth, and create lasting memories. […]
Craft Mela: A Celebration of Creativity and Tradition
Craft Mela, held in the heart of Auroville, is a vibrant celebration of artistry and tradition. This annual event brings together diverse crafts—handlooms, blacksmithing, coconut rope making, and more. It serves as a platform for children to learn alongside seasoned artisans, preserving endangered skills and […]
Annual Reports
