Growing up in a small village where many children left school early to work, Bethala Veera Swami witnessed firsthand the challenges rural families face in supporting education. Today, more than a decade after starting a grassroots initiative, he helps nearly 90,000 children across over 110 villages continue learning beyond the classroom.
- Started as a community-driven after-school support initiative in 2011
- Now serves 90,000 children in more than 110 villages
- Focuses on closing the opportunity gap beyond literacy and classroom teaching
What happened
Bethala Veera Swami grew up in Yernagudem village with parents who were daily-wage agricultural workers. Despite financial hardships, his parents encouraged him to pursue education. He completed engineering studies and built a career across India and abroad, yet remained deeply connected to his roots.
In 2010, Swami and childhood friends decided to give back to their community by helping children continue their education after school. They founded the Pragathi Association for Rural Development (PARD INDIA), launching an after-school programme in 2011 with 50 children in their home village. This programme has since expanded to serve nearly 90,000 children across more than 110 villages.
Why it feels good
Swami’s initiative directly addresses the challenge many rural children face: lack of support and guidance after the school day ends. For families reliant on daily wages, parents often return home late and cannot assist with studies. The after-school programme fills this gap by providing dedicated time and resources for learning.
Beyond academics, the programme offers children a diverse range of activities like sports, debates, storytelling, and environmental awareness. This holistic approach not only improves educational outcomes but also nurtures confidence and personal growth, making education a joyful experience rather than a burden.
What to enjoy or watch next
Keep an eye on how PARD INDIA continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact in rural Andhra Pradesh and beyond. Initiatives like these show how community-led education efforts can transform opportunities for children who might otherwise leave school early.
For those inspired by Swami’s story, exploring local volunteer groups or supporting after-school programmes can be a meaningful way to foster education in under-resourced communities. Watching how technology and community involvement evolve together can also offer fresh paths for accessible learning.