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Bridging the Digital Divide: Insights from ShikshaSetu

In a world where information is just a click away, access to technology is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. Yet, for millions of young people in India’s slums, tribal areas, and remote villages, the digital divide remains a stark reality. With this challenge in mind, Samagra Foundation launched ShikshaSetu, a bold initiative to bridge the gap and create equitable digital learning opportunities for all.

What is ShikshaSetu?

ShikshaSetu (meaning "Education Bridge") is a multi-dimensional project designed to provide free digital education, access to scholarships, and social security benefits to students from underserved backgrounds.

Built in collaboration with partners like India’s Largest Scholarship Portal, Grassroot implementing partners, ShikshaSetu is more than just a learning platform—it’s a pathway to empowerment.

Why ShikshaSetu Matters

The digital divide is not just about internet access—it’s about opportunity, literacy, and dignity. Here's what we're up against:

• Over 75% of rural students lack access to online education tools
• Many families are unaware of available scholarships or insurance options
• Girls and children from LGBTQIA+, tribal, and slum communities are disproportionately left behind

ShikshaSetu is Samagra’s answer to these systemic gaps.

Core Features of ShikshaSetu

✅ Certified Online Courses
Students aged 14–25 can enroll in short-term courses on:

• Digital Productivity (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Email)
• Internet Safety & Cyber Hygiene
• Artificial Intelligence & ChatGPT Basics

✅ Scholarship Access
Our platform is linked to 15,000+ active scholarships valued at over ₹600 Cr. We assist students in:

• Identifying suitable scholarships
• Completing applications
• Tracking results and outcomes

✅ Group Insurance
Through partnerships, enrolled students can also access affordable health and accident insurance, offering their families financial security.

The Human Impact: Real Stories

Anjali, a 17-year-old girl from a tribal hamlet in Nashik, never used a computer before. Through ShikshaSetu, she not only completed a digital productivity course but also applied for a scholarship to pursue nursing. She now trains other girls in her community.

Mohammad, a school dropout from an urban slum, learned how to use ChatGPT through our platform. Today, he assists local NGOs in writing proposals and blogs—becoming a digital changemaker at just 19.

Key Insights from Our Journey

1. Language Matters

All content is available in Marathi, Hindi, and English, making it inclusive and accessible for regional learners.

2. Community Mobilization is Key

Digital tools only work when paired with on-ground mobilization. We run community meetings, youth camps, and school sessions to build awareness and trust.

3. Digital Doesn’t Mean Impersonal

Our hybrid model includes mentor support, allowing students to call, message, or video-chat with trainers if they’re stuck.

Looking Ahead

With an ambitious target of reaching 1,00,000+ youth by 2025, ShikshaSetu is scaling to more states, including Maharashtra, Gujrat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka. Our goal is not just digital literacy—but digital fluency with purpose.

Want to Get Involved?

• Are you an educator or mentor? Volunteer with our training team.
• Are you a CSR partner? Help us reach more regions with devices and support.

Together, let’s make digital inclusion a reality—not just a vision.