Riya Badarinarayan

Middle School Finalist, Grade 8
Canton, Michigan

Access to Quality Education: One of India’s Most Pressing Developmental Issues

One of the biggest challenges India faces today is making sure that every child, no matter where they live, has access to a quality education. Over the years, school enrollment has increased significantly, but the hard truth remains: in many rural and underserved areas, real learning isn't happening the way it should.

Education is more than just books and classrooms. It’s the foundation for everything — a strong economy, equal opportunities for girls and boys, better health, and a more informed and engaged population. Yet in many parts of India, millions of kids are falling behind. Not because they aren’t smart or motivated, but because the system is failing them. One statistic stands out: according to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), more than half of fifth graders in rural India can’t read a second-grade textbook. That means students are physically in school, but they’re not mastering even the basics. It’s heartbreaking and it’s a major roadblock to their futures.

For me, this issue became personal during one of my visits to India to see my extended family. I love spending time with my cousins. We play games, tell stories, and share everything we’re learning. But a few years ago, I began noticing a growing gap. While I was learning about science and technology through a developed curriculum in the U.S., some of my cousins in rural areas were still memorizing outdated textbooks. A few were struggling with basic reading and writing. It wasn’t a matter of intelligence or curiosity, they were bright and eager to learn. They just didn’t have the same tools, support, or opportunities. That realization opened my eyes. I saw how deeply a child’s future can be shaped by something as simple as where they’re born.

So, what’s causing this crisis? Several key issues: First, infrastructure. Many rural schools lack essentials like clean bathrooms, electricity, or even desks. Imagine trying to focus on math in 100-degree heat without a fan, it's nearly impossible. Second, teacher shortages. Some schools don’t have enough teachers, and others have teachers who aren't properly trained. Even when teachers are present, lessons often rely on memorization instead of encouraging real understanding. Then there are social pressures, especially for girls. In many communities, girls are expected to take care of younger siblings or help with housework, and some face early marriage. Safety concerns and the lack of female teachers also discourage girls from staying in school. And finally, the digital divide. During the pandemic, online learning became the norm, but millions of rural students had no access to smartphones, computers, or the internet. This gap is creating two Indias: one prepared for the future, and one being left behind.

The consequences are becoming more and more serious. Poor education leads to limited job opportunities, trapping families in poverty and weakening the country's ability to grow and innovate. But the good news is, even as students, we can be part of the solution through initiatives like volunteering and mentorship.

Volunteering is one of the most direct and powerful ways to support a child’s education. You don’t need to be a certified teacher to help a student understand a math problem, practice reading, or explore science. Sometimes, all it takes is your time, patience, and willingness to help. You can start locally by tutoring younger students after school or during the summer. And if you have family in India — like I do — you can support cousins, neighbors, or kids in your city by helping with homework or sharing online resources.

What may seem like a small effort to you could be the moment everything changes for someone else. There are also incredible nonprofits like Teach for India, Bhumi, and Make A Difference that work with underserved communities. Many offer student ambassador or youth volunteer programs. Getting involved not only allows you to help others, it also helps you grow as a leader and develop empathy, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.

Additionally, Mentorship goes a step further than tutoring. It’s about building a relationship and showing someone what’s possible. Many students lose confidence or drop out of school not because they lack potential, but because no one has told them they can succeed. As a mentor, you become that person. Whether it’s helping a student set goals, introducing them to new learning tools, checking in on their progress, or simply listening when they’re struggling, your presence can help them stay motivated and hopeful. You don’t need a formal program to make an impact. You can start a reading club, organize a weekend study group, or just be someone a younger student can count on. Imagine how powerful it would be if every student like us mentored just one learner. That ripple effect could reach far beyond what we can see. This issue isn’t just about education, it’s about giving kids hope and believing that every child, no matter their background, deserves the chance to dream big.

Fixing education in India may seem like a massive challenge, but it starts with small steps. Through mentorship, volunteering, and so many more initiatives we can help close the gap. Because when we invest our time and heart into education, we’re not just changing one life, we’re shaping the future of a generation, and of the country itself.