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Indian diaspora in Boston to host gala for education reform in India
The event, organized by Vidya Bharati USA, will highlight efforts to bring tech-enabled learning to underserved schools in India.
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Pranavi Sharma - Mon, 14, Jul 2025
- 00:02 EDT
- 27
Vidya Bharati, founded in 1952, is one of India’s largest non-governmental educational networks. / Vidya Bharti USA
Members of the Indian diaspora in New England will gather on July 23 at the Boston Marriott Burlington for a leadership reception and gala titled ‘One Tablet, Infinite Futures: Transforming India’s Education’. The event, organized by Vidya Bharati USA, will highlight efforts to bring tech-enabled learning to underserved schools in India.
Vidya Bharati, founded in 1952, is one of India’s largest non-governmental educational networks. It runs over 12,000 schools in 682 districts, serving 3.2 million students and employing nearly 150,000 teachers. The schools operate on a community-driven model, with land donations, low fees, and local support covering costs.
At the center of the event is Wellesley resident Satish Jha, a former corporate executive and past president of One Laptop Per Child. Jha has spearheaded the introduction of digital learning ecosystems in Vidya Bharati schools, including the use of tablets, AI tools, robotics, STEM curricula, and adaptive platforms for students and teachers.
Rather than focus on infrastructure, Jha’s approach emphasizes technology to enhance learning outcomes. He currently supports around a dozen such schools and is expanding to 22 more, including recent projects in Meerut. “The startup cost is about $500 per student,” the organizers said. “Jha has taken on much of this effort himself, with help from his family and friends.”
The event will run from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM and feature presentations by Vidya Bharati leaders and members of the diaspora such as Mona Chopra, a child empowerment advocate. Entertainment will be provided by Bollywood band Din Check.
“This is a chance to support scalable educational transformation,” organizers said. “People can contribute by sponsoring a child or a school and help equip students with tools for a global economy.”
Tickets are available via Eventbrite. The event will also offer sponsorship options for individuals, families, and professionals looking to support Vidya Bharati’s work.
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