Prayoga and SBI Foundation join hands to transform science education for primary school students in Raichur

Kriya programme being launched at Government Model Primary School in Station Bazaar in Raichur on June 17, 2025. It is designed for students from classes 6 to 10, and aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by emphasising hands-on scientific inquiry and critical thinking. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

In a major step towards strengthening science education in rural India, Prayoga Institute of Education Research has partnered with the State Bank of India Foundation (SBIF) and SBI Funds Management Private Limited to expand its flagship Kriya programme to 12 government schools in Raichur district.

The collaboration, officially launched at Government Model Primary School in Station Bazaar, Raichur, on June 17, is part of SBIF’s Integrated Learning Mission (ILM) titled Reimagining Science Education.

Block Education Officer, Raichur, Eranna Kosagi, SBI Foundation Managing Director Sanjay Prakash and Prayoga Managing Trustee Vallish Herur were among those present at the launch in Raichur, along with teachers and education officers at both block and cluster levels.

Sanjay Prakash stated that the partnership is a significant step towards bridging the educational gap in rural India. “By providing quality science education and the necessary resources, we are enabling students to experience science in a practical and engaging manner. We believe this initiative will inspire students in Raichur to pursue careers in science,” he said.

Vallish Herur added that that Prayoga would, through the Kriya programme, like to provide government school children in Raichur an opportunity to explore science in engaging, hands-on ways.  

“Science, when learnt experientially, enables students to build capabilities beyond textbooks. With support from the SBI Foundation and encouragement from local education authorities, we aim to create a brighter future for children in Raichur. The initiative aligns with Prayoga’s mission of improving education quality through research-driven practices tailored to the Indian context. Marking its 10th year, the institute continues to focus on strengthening STEM education, especially in underserved regions, through scalable and sustainable programmes,” he said.

The organisers said that the Kriya programme, which had already impacted over 11,000 students across 77 schools in Karnataka, focuses on experiential learning in science. It is designed for students from classes 6 to 10, and aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by emphasising hands-on scientific inquiry and critical thinking.

Published - June 19, 2025 10:26 am IST