SBI Foundation Backs Prayoga’s Science Learning Mission

In a bid to revolutionize science education in rural Karnataka, the Prayoga Institute of Education Research has partnered with the SBI Foundation and SBI Funds Management Pvt. Ltd. to expand its experiential Kriya programme to 12 government schools in Raichur district. Launched under the SBI Foundation’s Integrated Learning Mission (ILM) titled Reimagining Science Education, this initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific skills among students in classes 6 to 10.

Why in News?

The launch of the Kriya programme in Raichur on June 17, 2025, marks a significant expansion of hands-on, inquiry-based science learning in one of Karnataka’s underserved districts. The initiative, backed by India’s largest public sector bank’s philanthropic arm, seeks to bridge the rural-urban divide in STEM education, enabling students from under-resourced schools to access quality science instruction.

Key Highlights of the Initiative

• Programme Name: Kriya – a hands-on science learning programme.
• Partners: Prayoga Institute of Education Research, SBI Foundation, and SBI Funds Management Pvt. Ltd.
• Location: 12 government schools in Raichur, Karnataka.
• Launch Date: June 17, 2025, at Government Model Primary School, Station Bazaar.

Core Objectives

• Promote experiential science learning among rural students.
• Equip children with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Align education with NEP 2020’s vision of inquiry-based learning.
• Provide rural learners equal access to STEM opportunities.

About the Kriya Programme

• Initially implemented in 77 schools, impacting 11,000+ students across Karnataka.
• Designed for Classes 6–10, with curricula focused on experiments and application.
• Encourages student-led discovery and exploration beyond textbooks.

Alignment with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020

• Emphasizes hands-on learning, curiosity, and student agency.
• Kriya serves as a practical embodiment of NEP principles in rural schools.