In a small rural community of a village in Thane district, Maharashtra, an extraordinary educational experiment is challenging age barriers. It is redefining lifelong learning. Known locally as Aajibaichi Shala or the “Grandmother’s School,”. This initiative focuses on providing basic literacy and numeracy skills to women aged 60 to 90 who were historically denied formal education.
A School With a Mission: Lifelong Learning for Seniors
Aajibaichi Shala, the grandmother’s school
Aajibaichi Shala began in 2016 when local Zilla Parishad teacher Yogendra Bangar realized that many elderly women in the village had never had the chance to attend school. With support from the Motiram Dalal Charitable Trust, he launched the school on International Women’s Day. It aimed to empower senior citizens with essential reading, writing, and arithmetic skills.
From its humble beginnings—initially held in a spare room or under a tree—the school now attracts around 30 grandmothers who attend classes regularly. These women, clad in bright pink saris, arrive with school bags and sit together to learn the Marathi alphabet, basic math, and correct pronunciation.
Breaking Stereotypes and Boosting Confidence
Aajibaichi Shala is more than just a school. It is a symbol of empowerment, dignity, and social inclusion. Many of the students proudly walk into the classroom with a determination that defies stereotypes about age and education. Some have moved from using thumbprints on official documents to confidently signing their own names. This is a milestone that has deeply boosted their self-respect and independence.
The school’s vibrant atmosphere also strengthens community bonds. As these elderly women learn alongside their peers, they develop a sense of purpose and accomplishment that transcends academic skills. The initiative has been praised for fostering a supportive learning environment where education truly becomes a lifelong journey.
Community Support and Village Transformation
Aajibaichi Shala, the grandmother’s school
The success of Aajibaichi Shala also highlights the power of community involvement. Local villagers, charitable organizations, and educators have rallied behind the project, providing resources such as blackboards, school bags, uniforms, and classroom space.
Beyond literacy, the school’s influence has encouraged broader social change. Hygiene awareness and community outreach efforts tied to the school have contributed to improvements in public health and sanitation throughout the village.
Keys to Success and Future Potential
Aajibaichi Shala, the grandmother’s school
The Grandmother’s School model reflects a growing recognition that education has no age limit. By targeting a demographic often overlooked by traditional systems, Aajibaichi Shala challenges social norms and offers a blueprint for inclusive education. Its impact extends beyond individual students to inspire villagers, families, and policymakers alike.
As demand grows, educators hope similar initiatives can be replicated in other parts of India, ensuring that no one is locked out of learning due to age, gender, or circumstance.
