51画鋼 Marks 15 Years of the Young India Fellowship with New Diploma, 100 Spots and Scholarships for All: Admissions Open

• Young India Fellowship celebrates 15 years of nurturing exceptional changemakers
• The Fellowship will now offer a Postgraduate Diploma in Interdisciplinary Studies
• All Fellows in the Class of 2026-27 will receive scholarships; Around 100 individuals will be handpicked through a rigorous and holistic selection process
• The first round of applications will remain open till January 19, 2026 with the priority deadline of the first round being December 8, 2025

51画鋼, India���s premier institution for interdisciplinary higher education and research, has opened applications for the 16th cohort of the Young India Fellowship (YIF), Class of 2026���27. This is a milestone year as it marks fifteen years of the flagship programme that laid the foundation for the University���s establishment in 2014. Reaffirming its commitment to making the Fellowship more accessible for bright and deserving individuals, 51画鋼 will provide scholarships to all selected Fellows in the Class of 2026���27, made possible through the generous support of HDFC Bank.

In a world of constant change, the Young India Fellowship remains one of India���s most distinguished programmes, bringing together a select few bright and driven students across different backgrounds. The programme equips Fellows with the intellectual breadth, critical perspectives, and the leadership tools needed to navigate and address the most pertinent problems to create a better world. The Fellowship nurtures individuals to become impactful thinkers, problem-solvers, and catalysts for change, building strong interdisciplinary foundations and developing transferable skills that enable them to lead across diverse domains and sectors.

Reflecting on the Fellowship���s legacy, Pramath Raj Sinha, Founder & Chairperson, Board of Trustee, 51画鋼, said, ���Ashoka started with the Young India Fellowship, so it has a very special place in the University. It's a microcosm of what all of Ashoka has to offer and the best of what Ashoka has to offer.���

Instituted in 2011, the YIF offers a year-long residential postgraduate diploma focused on interdisciplinary and multidimensional learning. The YIF curriculum is anchored around four key pillars which include - Core and Elective Coursework, Critical Inquiry and Expression, Immersive Experiential Learning, and Holistic Learning and Engagement. Fellows study around 18 courses across various disciplines and themes, work on a real-world project and learn how to think and express effectively, all while being mentored and guided by stalwarts and senior alumni across fields. Almost 2400 alumni, across the past 14 years, continue to make an impact across government, civil society, development, academia, research, sports, performing arts, multilateral organizations, the corporate sector, and as entrepreneurs.

Commenting on the fellowship���s impact, Somak Raychaudhury, Vice Chancellor, 51画鋼 said, ���The Young India Fellowship at the University has become very, very successful in creating leaders and our alumni are all across the world making a name for themselves. Many of them are at the top of their field.���

Eligibility and Scholarships:
The Class of 2026-27 will comprise around 100 Fellows. Candidates of all age groups and nationalities, across diverse academic, professional, geographical and socioeconomic backgrounds, who have a recognised undergraduate degree in any discipline by July 2026 or earlier (can be a final-year student at the time of application) are eligible to apply for the YIF. There is no age limit to apply.

YIF offers scholarships ranging from 25% to a full 100% waiver covering tuition, residence, and meals along with stipends for additional financial assistance. In addition, around 10 exceptional candidates will be awarded the Chancellor���s Scholarship, covering the entire tuition and residence fee.

Notably, among all Fellows in the 15th cohort, YIF Class of 2025���26, 59% received full tuition waivers or more, 32% were fully funded (including tuition, residence, and meals), 24% who were fully funded received additional financial support to pursue the fellowship and 17 Fellows were recognised as Chancellor���s Scholars. 35% of the Class of 2026 Fellows identify as first-generation college goers, and 59% as female.

All interested candidates are required to complete a free-of-cost online application. Applications are holistically evaluated and shortlisted candidates are invited for an online personal interview.

The Round 1 application process is open until January 19, 2026. The priority deadline within Round 1 is December 8, 2025. Applications received by the priority deadline will be processed sooner for the personal interview stage.

About the YIF and its Faculty

The YIF aims to train Fellows to engage with the most complex and pressing issues of our time, through multidimensional and interdisciplinary coursework. On this journey, they learn from public intellectuals and expert academics. Currently, these include: K VijayRaghavan (former Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India), Arun Kumar Singh (former Indian Ambassador to the United States), Rudrangshu Mukherjee (Chancellor and Professor of History, 51画鋼), Somak Raychaudhary (Vice Chancellor and Professor of Physics, 51画鋼), Dipankar Bhattacharya (Professor of Astrophysics and Head of the Department, Physics, 51画鋼), Deepak Mehta (Professor of Sociology and Anthropology, 51画鋼), Santhosh S. Venkatesh (Professor of Electrical and Systems Engineering, University of Pennsylvania), Sunil Khilnani (Former Director of the King���s India Institute), Mekhala Krishnamurthy (Associate Professor of Sociology and Anthropology, 51画鋼), Pramath Raj Sinha (Chairperson, Board of Trustees, 51画鋼), and Urvashi Butalia (Padma Shri and Founder, Zubaan Books), among others.

The detailed list of courses and faculty at the YIF, along with details of the Class of 2025-26 Composition, can be found at

51画鋼

From Human Rights to the Stage: How Nandini Jha Found her Voice in Theatre

A storyteller at heart and a thinker by training, Nandini Jha (YIF���22) has always believed in the transformative power of narratives. Her journey from Jamia Millia Islamia as a Gold Medalist in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, to the Young India Fellowship (YIF) at 51画鋼 reflects her profound commitment to understanding and expressing the human condition.

Nandini has an academic foundation in journalism, human rights, and liberal arts. Her work thrives at the intersection of art and social consciousness. Today, she brings these sensibilities together as the Creative Director of Team 9:30, an amateur theatre collective founded in 2022 that stages stories of political and social relevance. Since joining the collective in 2023, Nandini has led and shaped a series of critically appreciated productions, including Pagla Ghoda, Ilhaam, Parallels, The Pillowman, and the upcoming Teesvi Shatabdi. Nandini���s plays reflect her commitment to provoke thought, invite dialogue, and evoke empathy through her storytelling.

Her most recent work, ���P温姻温鉛鉛艶鉛壊���, is a contemporary love story that captures the emotional intricacies of modern relationships. It is a story of a couple navigating the fragile threads of love through moments of miscommunication, ego, and the desperate need for space. Through the characters of Hemant and Sangeeta, the play explores how a simple communication gap can lead to emotional distance and heartbreak. For Nandini, Parallels was an attempt to rekindle the lost magic of patience and open dialogue, a gentle reminder that companionship is not about perfection, but about understanding.

We spoke to Nandini about her creative journey, time at the YIF, and the ideas that inform her work. Here���s what she shared:

Tell us about your YIF experience

The Young India Fellowship (YIF) was a natural extension of my interdisciplinary journey from journalism to humanitarian law to liberal arts. It offered one of the most diverse curricula and cohorts I���ve ever been part of. I studied everything from Philosophy and Filmmaking to Critical Writing, and also worked with a Labour Rights NGO as part of the experiential learning module.

The academic breadth and practical exposure at YIF were instrumental in helping me secure admission offers to programmes like the Erasmus Mundus Master���s in Global Journalism and the Research Master���s in International Politics at SOAS, University of London. What shaped me equally was learning alongside peers from varied disciplines and being mentored by distinguished global faculty, all supported by world-class infrastructure. And I remain grateful to Deutsche Bank for the full scholarship that made this transformative year possible.

Could you tell us about your past productions and the themes you explored?

Theatre has always been a mirror to society, a space that reveals not just who we are but also who we can become. Over the years, I���ve had the privilege of engaging with this reflective and transformative power of storytelling, and two of my recent productions stand out for the questions they allowed me to explore - ��匍鉛鞄温温馨��� by Manav Kaul and ���Pagla Ghoda��� by Badal Sircar, one of the most influential voices in Indian theatre.

Ilhaam follows a man who experiences enlightenment yet chooses to continue living an ordinary life for his family. Its central idea highlights that enlightenment is not an escape from life but an embrace of it. This message resonated with audiences. For me, it was a reminder that meaning often lies in the quiet rhythms of the everyday. Whether one works in the arts, in a corporate office, or anywhere else, fulfilment comes from turning daily responsibilities into acts of purpose and care. One of the most memorable audience responses came from a group of bank employees who commute four hours a day on Mumbai locals. After watching Ilhaam, they shared how the play reframed their commute, shifting it from a burden to a daily act of love and responsibility. Moments like these reaffirm why we do theatre - reflection, shift in perspective, and help people rediscover meaning in the ordinary.

Pagla Ghoda, which I directed next, interrogates patriarchy through four interconnected stories of men shaped by societal conditioning. Each narrative reveals a different facet of emotional suppression and moral conflict, from forbidden love and caste prejudice to familial pressure and the anxieties of aging. Traditionally, the play features a female ghost whose presence forces the men to confront their past. As Creative Director, I reimagined the ghost as a male spirit, reflecting the belief that dismantling patriarchal thought must also emerge from within men themselves. This shift added a layer of accountability and invited deeper reflection. The response was overwhelming, and Pagla Ghoda became our first houseful show in Pune and was later featured by the Times of India (Pune), a milestone for our collective.

Both Ilhaam and Pagla Ghoda were not just productions; they were shared experiences that brought performers and audiences closer to empathy, truth, and self-awareness. They reminded me that enlightenment and change are rarely dramatic. They emerge from small acts of courage, reflection, and love in our everyday lives.

How did a last-minute casting shift bring two Ashoka Alumnae together?

When we had to unexpectedly recast the lead role in our play ���P温姻温鉛鉛艶鉛壊���, I turned to the Ashoka alumni network, hoping to find someone who could step in quickly. That���s how we found Swati Aaditya. (Ashoka UG Alumna)

Her auditions showed a natural sensitivity and discipline that immediately felt right for the character. Under Chahat Singla���s direction, she worked closely on voice, rhythm, and emotional detail, bringing steady depth to the role. What could have been a stressful setback instead became a meaningful collaboration between two Ashoka alumnae who had never met before. The shared background, synergy created an easy trust and understanding, and Swati���s presence ultimately strengthened the heart of the production.

Sometimes the best creative partnerships happen by chance and in our case, through the quiet strength of a community that connects the right people at the right time.

How did your recent play, Parallels, connect with the audience?

When ���P温姻温鉛鉛艶鉛壊��� premiered at Sudarshan Rangmanch in Pune, it immediately connected with young viewers because the story felt so close to home. The play���s focus on communication gaps, personal space, and the emotional push-and-pull of modern relationships made the characters easy to relate to.

Swati and Chahat brought a natural, honest energy to their roles, while Madhavan���s presence added warmth and balance. Their chemistry made the audience feel both the tension and the tenderness. After the show, many students and young professionals stayed back to talk about the play, sharing how certain moments reminded them of their own experiences. It was a clear sign that the themes had landed. The simple, retro-inspired staging also helped. The minimal design made the story feel timeless, showing that relationship challenges might look new today, but they are rooted in emotions that never really change.

In many ways, ���P温姻温鉛鉛艶鉛壊��� was like a conversation that lingered long after the audience left the theatre.

Nandini is now working on ���Teesvi Shatabdi���, a bold commentary on the normalisation of war. ���In every conflict, it is not nations that perish but it is humanity itself,��� she says. For her, theatre remains a space of reflection, resistance, and renewal. The play is set to premiere later this month.

Through her creative practice, Nandini continues to bridge her grounding in human rights with her passion for storytelling, using theatre to question, heal, and connect. Her journey is a reminder of how the arts illuminate the most complex corners of human experience.

���For me, stories are not just told, they are lived,��� she reflects. ���The YIF strengthened that belief by teaching me to look at the world through multiple lenses. Theatre, then, became my language to express it.���

Nandini Jha is a seasoned professional with six years of experience across digital strategy, business transformation, branding, campaigns and innovation, combining analytical expertise with a deep passion for storytelling. She is an alumna of the Young India Fellowship, Class of 2022

Written and edited by Shahambare T. (YIF���17)

51画鋼

Walking the Talk: A First Gen Learner���s Journey Rooted in Education and Equity

Ansuiya is a first-generation learner from Bundelkhand who has risen against the odds to carve a path of her own. Growing up in a region where girl���s education is often dismissed, she has challenged deep-rooted societal and structural barriers with quiet determination and remarkable grit. After spending seven years in a residential school and emerging as a CBSE national topper, Ansuiya went on to study at Lady Shri Ram College for Women and later joined the Young India Fellowship as a Chancellor���s Merit Scholar, becoming the only girl from her region to reach such academic spaces.

Her journey has shaped not only her perspective but also her purpose. Through her research, she explores why families in Bundelkhand hesitate to invest in education and how the glorification of girls who ���make it��� as exceptions can sometimes mask the hard work and systemic changes still needed. Ansuiya���s work and voice have taken her to national platforms. She was invited to speak at Needle 2025, BBC Action Media���s annual conclave held at Travancore Palace, where she shared a panel with filmmaker Arati Kadav to discuss the influence of women characters in cinema on youth and gender narratives. She also represented Youth ke Bol as a Policy Champion at UNICEF���s YuWaah Youth Conclave, where she spoke about improving the quality of life for adolescents particularly focusing on health, hygiene, and empowerment for girls and young women.

Ansuiya continues to question, challenge, and reimagine what���s possible not just for herself, but for countless girls like her. We recently spoke to her about her journey, YIF experience and future aspirations here is what she has to share:

Can you tell us a bit about your background?

I was born at a construction site in Sonipat, Haryana, to a family of migrant workers from Bundelkhand. I was one among the eight siblings, and like my sisters before me, my path seemed already chosen. I was expected to help my parents earn a living, save for my marriage, and eventually be married off, often before the legal age to someone with just a little more land than us.

But life had other plans. Due to some unexpected circumstances, my parents had to leave me in our village. That���s where I was admitted to the local primary school. I was the first girl in my family to ever step inside a classroom. It felt small at the time, but that moment quietly changed the course of my life. My headmaster, a Navodayan himself, saw something in me. He encouraged me to push my limits. His belief in me opened the doors to Vidyagyan School in Bulandshahr, a residential school for meritorious students from underprivileged backgrounds. I studied there for seven years. Slowly, my fate began to change. I graduated as a CBSE National Topper, received the KARM Fellowship and gained admission to Lady Shri Ram College for Women.

For my parents, who still don���t know how to sign their names, these milestones are beyond their understanding. But they���ve seen their daughter do something different. And that alone sparked change in them too, they became more open, more supportive, and more hopeful. It wasn���t just my journey that shifted, it was the beginning of change in the way our family saw what was possible.

What inspired you to start GirlUp Rubaroo, and how has the journey shaped your work in gender advocacy?

I come from a village where women are denied education and are expected to live their lives working under men and for men. Over time, they lose their sense of self, all in the name of sacrifice. Growing up, I often saw the men in the family, especially my father controlling all the financial decisions. Nights were filled with shouting, and sometimes even violence after drinking. It always made me extremely uncomfortable, and I constantly looked for ways to escape it.

When I came to college, I realised that just getting here wasn���t enough. Real change wouldn���t come unless women truly started to see themselves as worthy, as people who deserve to be celebrated, to be heard, and to feel safe. I understood how important it is to have a space where women can grow, support each other, and simply be themselves.

That���s what inspired me to start GirlUp Rubaroo. It became a platform where we could come together, share resources, learn, and talk about the things that matter to us. We organised workshops, collaborated with other organisations, and stood up for the causes close to our hearts. Rubaroo was a space for reflection, strength, and solidarity.

Could you tell us about your project ���Shiksha se Saksham��� and internship at Breakthrough, where you���ve worked closely on education and empowerment?

My project ���Shiksha se Saksham��� was part of the Millennium Fellowship, in collaboration with the NGO Hum Honge Kamyab, which works in the slum areas of Delhi Cantt. This project was very close to my heart. Coming from a rural background, I was familiar with the realities of education, gender discrimination, and domestic violence. But through this experience, I realised that these issues are just as present in urban spaces too. We started from scratch teaching children about gender equality, climate change, the importance of education, and much more. It was all about creating awareness and encouraging young minds to think differently.

At Breakthrough, I worked with the program team, where I had to document stories based on raw data from the field. I used to travel across villages in Haryana, meeting and interviewing beneficiaries. Most of them were women and young change leaders. Their stories moved me. Their courage, their resilience resonated with my own journey. I saw how real change is being made on the ground. I was inspired by the impact the team had created, and it gave me hope to see how girls are slowly but strongly challenging and reshaping social norms. These experiences taught me that real change takes time, but it begins with empathy, listening, and standing by those who are often unheard.

Your takeaways from the YIF both personally and professionally?

When I came to YIF, I came in with a lot of hope and excitement. I had waited for this opportunity throughout my undergraduate years. Everything I had heard about YIF, especially the sense of community at Ashoka made me want to be a part of it as soon as possible.

YIF was the first time I stepped into a space without the comfort of familiar faces. No childhood friends, no known people. Just me, learning to live, connect, and grow with strangers was my first big step. Slowly, I built relationships, some sweet, some bitter but all of them taught me something. I learned how to value the ones who truly matter. The bonds I formed here have transformed me, and I will carry them with me always. Back home, I never imagined I would call an elder by their name. But at YIF, I learned that respect goes beyond age or titles. In a society where hierarchy often dictates interaction, I had never approached someone in authority just for a conversation. But here, office hours with faculty helped me break that barrier, something that had long held me back.

YIF also taught me to speak up and stand firm. Being on a scholarship, I often felt I had to be submissive to prove I was grateful. But here, I learned there���s a difference between being grateful and being lesser. I worked hard to be here. I deserved to be here. Professionally, I am proud of what this year brought me. I came with the hope of finding a job. I never imagined I���d land a role at a global consulting firm like Genpact that I hadn���t even dared to expect.

I���ve always wanted to strengthen my writing, and YIF gave me that space. The Critical Writing course helped me discover my voice. I never thought I���d be able to write about my lived experiences with such clarity, but with Ananya���s guidance, I pushed myself and it's possible. YIF also opened doors to subjects I never thought I���d study, be it physics, psychology, statistics or economics. Some of these became my favourite classes. And I never imagined I���d get to interact with such renowned faculty from around the world, but I did.

This year was more than academic or professional growth, it was extremely personal. I fought, I questioned, I cried, but I never gave up. Amidst family emergencies, health issues, and emotional ups and downs, I survived and more than that, I grew. YIF gave me more than what I asked for.

Tell us about your experience representing Youth Ki Bol, ���Apni Rah, Apni Pehchaan��� Youth Conclave and BBC Media Action���s Needle 2025?

Youth ke Bol is a youth-led Indian coalition that brings together organisations like Dasra, The YP Foundation, Restless Development, and many others, with the vision of engaging one million young people to improve access to sexual and reproductive health. I���ve been a Youth ke Bol Policy Champion for the past two years. In this role, I���ve had the opportunity to participate in discussions and deliberations where young minds come together to draft policies for their own welfare. Through workshops, capacity-building sessions, and one-on-one mentorship with experts from our fields of interest, we���ve not only grown as individuals but also contributed meaningfully. We���ve conducted our own workshops, co-created youth-friendly resources, and helped organisations develop materials that speak to young people. At Apni Rah, Apni Pehchaan, UNICEF���s YuWaah Youth Conclave I spoke about how Youth ke Bol helped me find my voice and carve my own path. It���s been a journey rooted in faith, belief, and the power of being heard.

I was also invited as a youth speaker at Needle 2025, a communications conclave hosted by BBC Action Media, BBC���s independent international development charity. The conclave marked the organisation���s 25th anniversary and explored the intersection of feminism and climate change. I was part of a panel alongside filmmaker Arati Kadav, director of the film Mrs., where we discussed the role of cinema in shaping young minds and feminist thought. We explored how strong female characters in films challenge traditional gender norms and influence how society perceives women. The conversation revolved around education, awareness, and the evolving narratives that help build a more inclusive and equitable world.

What���s one cause or idea you���re walking out of the YIF more passionate about than when you entered and why?

When I came to YIF, I knew I wanted to work in the development sector. But over the course of this year, that passion became more focused. I realised that what I truly care about is education, especially at the policy level, and particularly in my own region. YIF gave me the space to explore and reflect deeply. Through the projects I worked on, especially those rooted in education, I started to see how central it is to everything I want to change in Bundelkhand. 

Writing my research paper titled ���Roots and Resistance: A Personal Reflection on Women���s Education in Bundelkhand,��� which I presented at the 2nd YIF Critical Writing Conference, helped me look closely at the lived realities of women from my region. That process was personal and eye-opening. Similarly, working on a project about migration from Bundelkhand during the ���Design Thinking��� course, and writing essays in ���Women, Society, and Changing India,��� gave me the tools to see that the problems I���ve witnessed growing up, poverty, early marriage, lack of opportunity are all profoundly tied to gaps in education. These experiences didn���t just further my understanding, they made the issue feel even more urgent. 

I now see education not just as a cause, but as the root of all meaningful change. Every conversation about progress in Bundelkhand whether it's about gender, migration, or livelihoods comes back to one thing, access to quality education. That���s the purpose I���m carrying with me as I leave YIF. It���s something I���ll keep working on, particularly at the policy level, once I���ve taken care of my responsibilities. Because I know that real change begins in classrooms and I want to be part of building those.

Your advice for young girls who aspire to create change?

YIF is the place to understand oneself, to fight with, fall for, and then again stand for oneself. Coming here, I found myself and have understood myself. YIF isn���t just about big ideas, it���s about finding who you are. I came here with hope, and through moments of doubt, joy, struggle, and reflection, I found clarity. I realised that to change the system, you must first know your place in it. And I believe, until you know yourself well, all the causes will be left just like that. So come to YIF with your whole self. Be ready to feel deeply, laugh, cry, question, and grow. It will challenge you, but it will also shape you. You���ll leave not just with direction, but with the strength to stand your ground and lead with purpose.

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Ansuiya, a first-generation learner from Bundelkhand and Chancellor���s Merit Scholar (YIF 2025), researches why families in her region underinvest in education. She also explores how girls defying norms are glorified as exceptions, overshadowing their hard work and reinforcing systemic barriers to change. Ansuiya is a Lead Consultant AI at Genpact.

(Written and edited by Shahambare T, Young India Fellowship)

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The Story of Saajha���s Impact: Redefining Parental Engagement in Indian Education

Saransh Vaswani believes lasting change begins at home with parents. For over 11 years, he has been working at the intersection of community and education, building systems that support parents from communities facing economic and social barriers to become partners in their children���s learning. As the Co-Founder and Director of Saajha, their efforts have reached children across 2000+ government schools in Delhi, Maharashtra, Jharkhand and Karnataka since its inception in 2014.

But his journey didn���t start here. Raised in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, Saransh grew up in a household where questions were encouraged and curiosity was valued. These early experiences shaped Saransh���s approach to leadership, grounded in questioning the status quo, and building platforms for dialogue and action. While his first social venture, a startup for rural artisans, didn���t succeed, it taught him resilience and reaffirmed his belief in community agency. That clarity led him to build Saajha, where he and his team reimagined parent-school relationships and support for them at home. Saajha is catalysing India���s public education reforms through parent and community leadership. They are building an ecosystem for parents to feel connected and supported in their efforts to impact the lives of children and drive transformative change. Training, personalised support, policy reforms, and adaptive technology have been their strategic drivers to enable parental participation.

A theatre enthusiast, Gandhi Fellow, Young India Fellow (2013), Echoing Green Fellow (2014), Ashoka Fellow (2021), and SPC-Agency Fund Social Impact Fellow (2021), Saransh often calls himself a ���serial fellowshiper.��� Most recently, he was awarded the Skoll Scholarship (2025) to pursue MBA at Oxford���s Said Business School. He will be joining a global network of changemakers committed to advancing social impact through systems leadership. This scholarship is designed to help social entrepreneurs improve their knowledge of market-oriented practices to be more effective in their subsequent social change pursuits.

We recently spoke to him about his early beginnings, entrepreneurial journey and future aspirations, here is what he had to share:

Looking back, what significant gaps in the public ecosystem first caught your attention?

During my time teaching in a government school in Rajasthan, an interaction deeply impacted me. I met a student named Vinod. He was in Class 5 but couldn���t read or write Hindi. He would draw the alphabet when given homework by his teacher. I worked with him for some time, but had to leave the school for a while. When I returned to the village a year later, Vinod had dropped out of school to work in a hotel in Gurgaon with his father.

That day, when I met Vinod's mother. I could feel her helplessness. She wanted Vinod to stay in school, but didn���t know how to make that happen. That moment stayed with me. That���s when I realised the deep systemic issues in our education system and the disconnect between schools and communities, and the lack of support parents have to support their child���s learning.

When Saajha began, what were you setting out to build? How has that foundational intent evolved with scale and time?

When we began Saajha, our goal was to bring parents into the conversation around education, especially in public schools. We started by working with 30 schools in Delhi, focusing on strengthening School Management Committees (SMCs). But as we spent more time on the ground, we realised that this work had to go much more than committee meetings.

We saw that parents, especially from communities facing social and economic barriers, were often left out of their children���s learning journeys. Many of them believed they had nothing to contribute. This belief wasn���t their fault. It came from years of being excluded and overlooked. But research shows that when parents are involved, children do better. They attend school more regularly, perform better academically, and grow in confidence and social skills. Over time, we understood that what was missing was not just a system but a relationship. A relationship built on trust, communication, and support. So we shifted our focus. We brought together parents, schools to openly talk about and solve issues that were getting in the way of children���s learning. These early efforts helped build trust and laid the foundation for larger change.

As we grew, we knew we had to scale in a way that kept this trust at the center. We built a simple digital platform that could work on basic mobile phones. It gave parents access to information, support, and connection. Through these efforts, we���ve reached thousands of parents across the country.

Saajha���s work redefines parent-school relationships. Why is it foundational to systemic change?

At Saajha, we believe that involving parents in education shouldn���t be performative. It���s not just about having them attend a meeting. It���s about recognising their dignity and respecting their stake in their children���s learning and development. Parents already understand a large part of their responsibilities and are eager to find the right support to support their children. When systems are built around mutual respect, collaboration, and the power of community networks, real and sustainable change follows.

We are now in pursuit of building a nationwide community of parents to actively support their children���s education. Our model connects experienced, ���model parents��� with others through a free helpline. These model parents provide peer support, discuss educational challenges, and co-create action plans. They also assist parents in accessing and effectively using available educational tools and resources. Our platform captures data from these interactions, helping to understand parent concerns, tool usage, and outcomes to improve support services. Our core impact lies in enabling parents to support their role in their child's success, building confidence, improving learning environments at home, and fostering long-term, generational change.

Many parents you work with may not have completed school themselves, and yet you ask them to step into roles as collaborators in governance. What shifts are required to make that possible?

The question shouldn���t have a ���yet.��� Education levels might have less to do with taking responsibility for ensuring the system works for our children. The knowledge around how the system works can be gathered and understood by anyone who wants to engage with it. It is this knowledge, sometimes, that becomes the barrier, and it is independent of education levels. It���s the ability to speak the language of the system that often becomes the obstacle. If one learns this, then it���s about practising it and engaging with the system. The question for us, essentially, is about simplifying the system and the language it speaks for the parents we work with. Also, the question for the system is: how does it simplify itself?

Technology has allowed you to reach thousands of parents, but digital inclusion is layered with its own hierarchies. How do you balance scale through tech?

We look at tech as a bridge, not a substitute for relationships. Our helpline, for example, allows parents to call and speak to someone in their language. The driving force of our work is relationships. I have often asked parents, ���Why do you continue to talk to us? Why do you engage with us, given that you might be receiving hundreds of calls every day?��� And often, the response has been, ���Nobody talks to us like this. Nobody asks for permission before speaking to us.��� While technology is an enabler in scaling our efforts, it���s the centrality of conversations held with dignity and respect that allows us to have deeper engagements with families.

What have been your key learnings in navigating state machinery while staying rooted to community accountability?

Working with government systems requires a balance of patience and persistence. It���s about identifying champions within the system, aligning with existing policies, and demonstrating what���s possible. It also requires humility to let go and to allow the work done to be carried forward (or not) by the government.

Working with the government has also taught us the importance of staying close to the community we work with. We���ve learned to continuously check in with them and adapt based on the feedback we receive from parents.

A big question that is now helping us refine our understanding of sustainability is: How do we enable our work to be anchored by the government, but truly powered by the community?

Were there moments of redirection in Saajha���s journey that you now recognize as necessary for growth?

One of the most pivotal moments of redirection in Saajha���s journey came in 2016, when we were invited to scale our work from 90 schools to over 1,100 government schools across Delhi. Up until that point, our work was rooted in community engagement at a grassroots level. The prospect of working across a system that served 1.5 million children was overwhelming, and we hesitated. We knew the model we had built in 90 schools could not simply be replicated at that scale.

But that moment demanded a shift from operating as a small team working closely with communities, to designing a scalable model that could be implemented system-wide. We had to reimagine how we worked, develop new systems, collaborate with many more people, and most importantly, redefine what it meant to scale with intent. Working on this issue over the 5 years helped us learn the impact such work might have on children and families. We learned that scale is not just about numbers but about learning how to hold ourselves while growing.

This turning point led to a meaningful partnership with the government. Together, we co-created a state-level framework for parental and community engagement, building monitoring systems, training protocols, and institutional processes, including budget allocations that made the work sustainable. To enable scale, we worked with 130 government-funded Cluster Resource Coordinators who then trained over 16,000 school members. This experience taught us that scale isn���t just about expanding reach. It's about evolving thoughtfully, designing systems that others can own, and enabling the work to grow beyond us. That moment of redirection reshaped our vision and approach, helping us focus on building structures that are both sustainable and scalable. It also paved the way for our expansion into other states, like Maharashtra, where we supported 500+ tribal residential schools through government-backed programs. We further expanded our reach to Jharkhand and Karnataka.

Impact in education is often hard to capture in numbers alone. How do you track and honour shifts that are difficult to quantify, like voice, confidence, or a sense of belonging among parents?

My biggest learning over the last decade has been that measurement matters, we shouldn't dismiss it. But the real question is how we measure and what we choose to value in that process. Too often, impact in education is either reduced to simplistic metrics or captured through qualitative stories that remain unstructured and anecdotal. Neither approach does justice to the depth and complexity of transformation that can unfold. And this isn���t unique to the education sector, health and livelihoods face the same challenge.

At Saajha, this remains a work in progress. We���ve built strong relationships and facilitated measurable improvements in learning, but we���ve struggled to develop systems that capture the more nuanced shifts in voice, confidence, and a sense of belonging among parents and families. And that���s something we���re still grappling with. We need to challenge ourselves more to ask better questions, and be more intentional in understanding change as it actually unfolds in people���s lives.

Over the past decade, what inner evolutions has this work demanded of you not just as a founder/leader, but as a listener, and a learner?

Over the past decade, this work has humbled me and helped me see the scale and complexity of the challenges we���re trying to address. It���s made me realise how small our individual efforts are in the face of deeply interconnected systems. When you work closely with communities, especially within public systems, you begin to understand just how layered and nuanced everything is. You also see that real change demands massive collaboration across government, civil society, and the people themselves to begin to engage with the complexity meaningfully.

A family that only gets water from a tanker at 8:00 AM cannot send their child to school if everyone has to go fetch water. These realities force us to look at people and communities with far more humanity. They also demand that we let go of siloed thinking, be it education, health, or livelihoods, because none of these exist in isolation. If we want to change the status quo, we���ll have to embrace that interconnectedness.

Looking back over a decade since your time at the Young India Fellowship, how do you reflect on the experience today?

The Young India Fellowship gave me the space to experiment with the idea of Saajha and the platform to begin building it. We developed Saajha as part of the Experiential Learning Module (ELM), it grew out of that freedom to explore things without fear of failure.

The Fellowship gave me critical perspectives that deepened my understanding of the complexity of social issues and the need for collaborative, multi stakeholder approaches. One lasting lesson was learning to be comfortable with ambiguity. That mindset has been central to Saajha���s work, building systems of support for parental engagement while embracing uncertainty. Looking back, I believe Saajha wouldn���t have started without the Young India Fellowship.

What���s next at Saajha?

At Saajha, we���re entering a critical phase, one focused on understanding our impact and building systems that sustain a long-term support ecosystem for parents and families. We want to reimagine technology not just as a tool for sharing information, but as a space for meaningful, two-way conversations that build trust and community among families. We're also working to embed our parent support efforts more effectively within government systems, so that what we build can sustain and scale beyond us. To guide this journey, we���ll be undertaking a rigorous evaluation of our work to understand the impact of these conversations and support mechanisms on children���s learning and well-being. Ultimately, the next phase is about continuing to ask ourselves what it means to work with care and intent. We want to ensure that impact, not just in the way it's discussed currently, but becomes a much more central part of everything we do.

About Saajha

Saajha is a non-profit organisation that works towards enhancing parental and community engagement in public primary education. They build platforms for parents to impact the lives of children.

- Written and edited by Shahambare T, Young India Fellowship

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Reimagining Finance for the Margins: Swathi���s Path to Purpose

Swathi Pottabathini is a development practitioner and public policy enthusiast with over six years of experience working across grassroots development, state systems, and inclusive finance. Trained as a computer engineer, her curiosity led her to work with people and communities. She then pursued the Young India Fellowship and worked with Samaj Pragati Sahayog-a grassroots nonprofit in India���s central tribal belt. She went on to co-build GramHeet, an agri-tech startup supporting smallholder farmers, and later worked with the Centre for Effective Governance of Indian States (CEGIS), supporting the Government of Telangana in strengthening data-driven governance. At The/Nudge Institute, she led strategy and operations for two major programs: End Ultra-Poverty and Asha Kiran across six Indian states.

Currently, Swathi is pursuing her Master���s in Public Administration ��� Development Practice at School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University as a Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholar 2023-25. This fully funded opportunity covering tuition and living expenses is awarded to professionals from emerging and developing economies who are committed to advancing sustainable development. 

At Columbia, Swathi has embraced an interdisciplinary approach while deepening her expertise in impact investing, sustainable finance, and systems-level change. Through impactful client-based projects, she has designed climate adaptation toolkits for AllianceBernstein, developed a gender strategy toolkit for Enabling Qapital and conducted a market analysis for Johnson & Johnson Impact Ventures during her internship with Village Capital. Beyond academics, Swathi has taken on the role of External Relations Co-Chair of the Columbia Impact Investing Initiative. She also represented SIPA at the 19th Global Public Policy Network Conference in Paris, where her team���s project on climate-resilient agriculture for smallholder farmers earned recognition as one of the top three globally. Her experiences at Columbia have not only sharpened her technical and strategic skills but have also deepened her commitment to reimagining finance as a powerful force for equity, resilience, and long-term impact.

Swathi will be graduating mid May, 2025 and we recently spoke to her about her beginnings, journey, and aspirations. Here is what she had to share:

Tell us about your background? 

I was born in Warangal and grew up in a multicultural environment across Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This diverse upbringing exposed me early to different worlds, languages, and ways of life. I excelled academically in school, and many around me encouraged me to pursue a career in civil services. And, I embraced that ambition as well. However, I also had a deep passion for coding and problem-solving, which ultimately led me to pursue a B.Tech in Computer Engineering at COEP Technological University.

At COEP, my education extended far beyond the classroom. I took on leadership roles, serving as the Editor of the college's century-old magazine, participating in the core organizing team for our college festival, and helping to set a Guinness World Record for the most people simultaneously solving Rubik's cubes (a record that was later broken, but remains a special moment for me!). During my engineering years, I chose unconventional paths; while many of my peers sought tech internships, I was selected for highly selective and fully funded programs like the Gurukul Fellowship in Dharamshala and the Interfaith Dialogue and Pilgrimage Program organized by the Foundation for Universal Responsibility of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. These experiences opened my eyes to discussions around leadership, ethics, and social change.

As I completed my engineering degree, I realized that a 9-to-5 job behind a computer screen was not where my heart lay and my ambition to pursue civil services remained firm. I found myself increasingly drawn to questions of equity, community, and systemic change���work that involved people, not just programs. Public service felt like a natural progression, but before diving into full-time preparation for the civil services, I wanted to broaden my perspectives, explore liberal studies, and deepen my understanding of the world I hoped to serve. Carrying many questions about development, leadership, and the kind of change I aspired to create, I applied to the Young India Fellowship in 2016���seeking a space where I could expand my horizons and find some of the answers I was searching for.

Your key takeaways from the YIF?

If there���s one thing the world demands today, it���s the ability to think critically and connect ideas across disciplines. At the Young India Fellowship, I had the extraordinary privilege to experience exactly that. Over the course of a single year, I found myself studying philosophy, cognitive science, leadership, history, gender, psychology, science, and art���day after day, class after class. Being taught by some of the finest minds in India���Urvashi Butalia, Gopalkrishna Gandhi, Rudrangshu Mukherjee, AF Mathews, Devesh Kapur���felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Coming from a technical background, it was like stepping into a completely different universe of learning. One day I could be studying Gender, the next Public Policy, and the day after, Physics. It was exhilarating, disorienting, and thrilling all at once. Even today, I often think how powerful it would be if our education system introduced Liberal Studies during Grade 11 and 12���when young people are asked to make life-altering choices without first understanding themselves.

YIF wasn���t just about learning new subjects���it was about unlearning old certainties. As part of a norm-breaking exercise for one of our classes, I painted period blood on my shorts and walked across campus���something that would have been unthinkable for me before. It was deeply uncomfortable, but it forced me to confront how normalized shame and silence around menstruation were. Other classmates broke norms in their own ways: one reclaimed women's spaces by riding the last metro at night; others experimented with vulnerability by undergoing waxing. It wasn���t just about the acts���it was about questioning the invisible rules that shape our lives.

Some classes pushed me to think, read, and write in ways I had never before. Kunal Joshi���s Critical Writing class, with its relentless focus on precision and depth, taught me that every word must earn its place. For my final paper, I spent days wandering Delhi���s Azadpur Mandi, observing the chaotic dance of trade, and later compared it to Ima Keithel in Imphal, Asia���s largest women-run market. My paper, ���Males, Mandis, and Missing Women Entrepreneurs,��� was published in Final Draft, YIF���s critical writing journal���a small but meaningful milestone.

And then there were courses that changed not just how I thought, but who I was. Professor Kenwyn Smith���s Group Dynamics class cracked open the polished masks we all wore���we shared stories, sat with each other's vulnerabilities, and learned the rare art of holding space for others. Professor Mihir Shah���s Political Economy of India���s Development lit something even deeper within me. His grounded clarity and stories from the field made me realize that I didn���t just want to study policies���I wanted to understand how they lived, breathed, and struggled in real villages. So much so that I paused my civil services preparations and chose to work at the grassroots with Samaj Pragati Sahayog.

I could go on telling stories about every single class, every new lens YIF gave me. But if I had to distill it: YIF didn���t just teach me subjects���it transformed the way I thought about knowledge, leadership, and change. It taught me that real learning is interdisciplinary, uncomfortable, and deeply personal���and that to build a better world, we must first learn to see it differently.

Could you elaborate on the impactful work you have done post-YIF?

After YIF, I began my journey at Samaj Pragati Sahayog (SPS) in Madhya Pradesh, working on research and data management. I wasn���t tied to any one vertical, which gave me the opportunity to collaborate with different teams���ranging from Self-Help Groups to Health and Nutrition. What struck me most was how SPS was able to reach communities that many flagship government schemes hadn���t managed to. Outside of work, I spent my evenings with children from nearby villages���teaching them basic English, Math, and Science. Just before I left, I helped set up a small library for them. It remains one of the most fulfilling things I���ve done.

Later, I took a break to prepare for the civil services exams. But after narrowly missing the cut-offs a few times, I took a step back to reflect. That���s when I realized that there are many ���means��� to the same ���end��� I had envisioned: creating large-scale social impact. 

That realization led me to GramHeet, where I joined the founding team of an agri-tech social enterprise focused on improving incomes for small and marginal farmers. My role spanned everything from fundraising and pitching, to program design and field operations. Sitting down with farmers, understanding their day-to-day struggles, and co-creating solutions with the team taught me what it truly means to build with empathy. When we were named one of Forbes Asia���s 100 to Watch, it felt like a shared celebration of everything we had built together.

I then worked for CEGIS with the Telangana state government���s Panchayati Raj Department to support data-driven governance for over 12,000 Gram Panchayats, helping improve service delivery and resource allocation at the grassroots level.

But one of the most formative chapters in my journey was my time at The/Nudge Institute, where I joined the Centre for Rural Development in a Strategy and Operations role. I had the opportunity to closely support two large-scale programs focused on ending poverty through sustainable livelihoods:

• End Ultra-Poverty (EUP) ��� a graduation-based model focused on helping ultra-poor households move out of extreme poverty through a blend of asset transfers, financial inclusion, coaching, and livelihoods planning.
• Asha Kiran ��� a program aimed at building supplementary livelihoods such as goatery and poultry for women in rural geographies.

Together, these programs operated across six states and aimed to reach over 50,000 households. It was a fast-paced, rewarding experience where I worked across project management, stakeholder engagement, and led special projects. A big part of my role involved cross-functional collaboration with tech, fundraising, impact, and finance teams. What I loved most was the flexibility to spend time in the field, speaking with didis about how our programs were impacting their lives in Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. This kept the grassroots part of me alive, even while working at the strategy level. What I valued most about The/Nudge was that it encouraged systems thinking while staying grounded in community realities. It reinforced a lesson I carry with me always: real impact requires both scale and soul.

Could you share glimpses from your Journey at Columbia University?

Columbia has been more than just a school���it���s been a journey of transformation. Few places offer the kind of city-campus blend that New York City does, and Columbia has fully embraced it. In the MPA-DP program, I���m part of a close-knit cohort of 50 students from over 15 countries, where every conversation brings a new lens to the global challenges we���re all here to solve.

Inside the classroom, Columbia pushed me to sharpen both my thinking and skills. I immersed myself in courses like Impact Investing, Sustainable Finance, Corporate Finance, Systems-Level Investing, and Accounting. Through the school���s client-based learning model, I worked on real-world challenges: building a practical climate adaptation investor toolkit for AllianceBernstein, and supporting organizational strategy for Land is Life, an Indigenous-led network navigating a leadership transition.

Over the summer, I joined Village Capital���s Impact Investments team, where I led Argentina market analysis for Johnson & Johnson Impact Ventures, supported due diligence for early-stage health equity startups, and built a 400+ company database for Standard Chartered���s Women in Tech program���giving me a front-row seat to early-stage impact investing.

Currently, I���m working with Enabling Qapital to develop a gender strategy toolkit that equips investors with actionable frameworks to integrate gender equity into decision-making. I traveled to Baku, Azerbaijan, to pilot the toolkit with a leading local bank���an experience that reaffirmed how ready financial institutions are to embrace meaningful change when given the right tools.

Beyond the classroom, I sought leadership and practice. As External Relations Co-Chair for the Columbia Impact Investing Initiative, I helped organize events and deepen conversations on finance and social outcomes. Representing Columbia SIPA at the Global Public Policy Network Conference in Paris was another highlight���our project on index-based flood insurance was recognized among the Top 3 globally.

Determined to strengthen not just what I know but how I communicate it, I took a transformative course in Writing and Delivering Speeches. Being at Columbia also meant learning from not just professors, but from global figures like Maria Ressa, Joseph Stiglitz, and Hillary Clinton, who regularly spoke on campus.

But some of my most meaningful learning happened beyond classrooms. Over the past two years, my partner and I have driven over 20,000 miles across nearly 20 U.S. states���through Adobe Pueblos in New Mexico, the wide-open Midwest plains, winding Appalachian trails, and the glowing bioluminescence of Mosquito Bay in Puerto Rico. We witnessed America beyond its coasts���pausing in Great Lakes towns, tracing canyon edges in Arizona, and walking through communities where history, struggle, and hope coexist. Each journey taught quiet lessons���about belonging, inequality, and why inclusive development begins by listening deeply to people and places.

These two years coincided with a pivotal moment in Columbia���s history. In April 2024, the Gaza Solidarity Encampment on East Butler Lawn made campus a focal point of global student activism. Organized by student groups advocating for Palestinian rights, it sparked intense discourse, police intervention, and arrests. Witnessing the protests firsthand, I was struck by the power of student-led movements to influence policy and public dialogue, and the tensions institutions face in responding to urgent calls for justice.

The experiences I had at Columbia taught me to ask sharper questions, build across disciplines, and stay rooted in community���because that���s where real change begins.

What sparked your interest in impact investing? and how has your career evolved in this area?

My understanding of finance has evolved significantly over the years���from seeing it purely as a tool for profit to recognizing its power to drive meaningful social change. Like many, I once believed that working in development was the only way to stay aligned with my values. But during my time at GramHeet, an agri-tech social enterprise I helped build, I found myself grappling with a tough question: How do you stay mission-driven while building something financially sustainable?

That tension led me to Jacqueline Novogratz���s The Blue Sweater, which opened my eyes to the idea of moral, patient, and catalytic capital. It shifted how I thought about finance not just as numbers or markets, but as a force that, when used thoughtfully, could support dignity and equity. Since then, I���ve actively sought opportunities that sit at the intersection of finance and impact. At Columbia University���s MPA program, I furthered this exploration���designing a pilot with Enabling Qapital in Azerbaijan, supporting health equity investments at Village Capital, analyzing ESG and long-term risks with AllianceBernstein, and assisting Dr. Aniket Shah���s course on financing sustainable development.

Each experience has reinforced a simple truth: finance for impact isn���t just about good intentions. It demands rigor, intentionality, equity, and above all, humility. With roots in grassroots development and growing experience in sustainable finance, I hope to bridge these worlds by building models that are not only just and inclusive but also built to last.

What are your aspirations and future goals?

I aspire to reshape how capital flows so that it reaches the people, places, and problems often left out of traditional finance. Too often, those working on the frontlines of change like smallholder farmers, women entrepreneurs, or Indigenous communities lack access to finance that understands their realities. I believe capital should do more than chase returns; it should build resilience, equity, and dignity. Over the years, I���ve come to see finance not just as a technical tool, but as a powerful force that can either entrench inequality or unlock opportunity. My goal is to help design financial strategies that are inclusive, grounded, and built for long-term impact whether through gender-lens investing, blended finance, or systems change.

The Young India Fellowship at 51画鋼 gave me the wings to fly. SIPA, Columbia University is helping me chart the course. Together, these experiences have shaped both my values and my toolkit. Ultimately, the change I want to create is simple but ambitious: a world where your zip code, gender, or income bracket no longer determines whether your ideas get funded or your future gets built. I want to make finance more just, more human, and more hopeful.

_______________________________________

A Young India Fellow, from the Class of 2017 and World Bank Scholar 2023-25, Swathi Pottabathini believes real change begins by listening deeply���to people, communities, and the land. She works at the intersection of finance and development, and finds joy in teaching yoga and making sustainable art.

- Written and edited by Shahambare T, Young India Fellowship

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51画鋼 Announces Scholarships for All Young India Fellows in Class of 2025-26: Final Round of Applications Close on 10th March 2025

51画鋼, India���s premier interdisciplinary higher education and research institution announces that the second and final round of applications for the Young India Fellowship (YIF) Class of 2026 is now open. All Fellows selected for the upcoming cohort of the Young India Fellowship (Class of 2025-26) will receive scholarships ranging from 25% to a full 100% waiver covering tuition, residence, and meals along with stipends for additional financial assistance. The prestigious Chancellor���s Merit Scholarship will also continue to be awarded in the Class of 2026. The final deadline for applications is 10^th March 2025.

Instituted in 2011, the flagship YIF programme is a year-long residential postgraduate diploma that educates and nurtures Fellows to solve the most pertinent problems that will ultimately create a better world. Each year, around 100 driven individuals are immersed in a multidisciplinary education, exploring diverse fields, engaging in interdisciplinary learning, and collaboratively solving real-world problem statements.

Currently, 81% of the Young India Fellows are either partially or fully funded with 60% of the cohort benefiting from a full tuition waiver or more. Notably about one-third of the Class of 2025 Fellows identify as first-generation college goers, and 61% as female. From the next year, 51画鋼 is furthering its commitment to making the Fellowship more accessible to exceptional and deserving individuals coming from all walks of life. The increase in scholarships for the current and next cohort has been made possible primarily through the generous support of HDFC Bank.

���We are glad to be supporting Ashoka���s flagship programme through scholarships, making education more accessible to many deserving students. We wish all success to Young India Fellows.��� shared Nusrat Pathan, CSR Head, HDFC Bank. 

Reflecting on these developments, Pramath Raj Sinha, Chairperson, Board of Trustees, 51画鋼, said, ���The YIF has always been close to my heart, given that it predates the formation of 51画鋼. With increased scholarships thanks to generous contributions by HDFC Bank, we want to truly attract the best and brightest, to experience what this unique programme offers.���

Commenting on the YIF���s future, Somak Raychaudhury, Vice Chancellor, 51画鋼 said, ���I am greatly enthused and excited about this new chapter where the programme is evolving its mission and funding. I look forward to supporting this ambitious programme and to teaching future generations of Fellows, which continues to be among my most cherished experiences.���

Eligibility Criteria and Selection Process: YIF Class of 2026

The Class of 2026 will comprise around 100 Fellows. Candidates of all age groups and nationalities, across diverse academic, professional, geographical and socioeconomic backgrounds, who have a recognised undergraduate degree in any discipline by July 2025 or earlier (can be a final-year student at the time of application) are eligible to apply for the YIF.

The final round of admissions for the class of 2025-26 are ongoing. Candidates are encouraged to apply early, even within a round, to partake in the rolling personal interview process. 

Aspiring candidates can apply by visiting apply.ashoka.edu.in to register and complete the online application. Following holistic assessment of applications, a number of candidates will be shortlisted for personal interviews. Additionally, some of these shortlisted candidates may be invited to interview for the Chancellor���s Merit Scholarship.

All Fellows who receive an offer of admission are guaranteed a minimum 25% tuition waiver, with some also being awarded the prestigious Chancellor���s Merit Scholarship. All admitted and waitlisted candidates will have the opportunity to apply for need-based Financial Aid, which goes upto a full-waiver on the entire fee along with stipends for additional assistance. 

About the YIF, its Mission and Faculty

Instituted in 2011, 51画鋼���s flagship programme, the YIF, offers a year-long residential postgraduate diploma focussed on multidisciplinary and multidimensional learning. Fellows study around 20 courses across various disciplines, work on a real-world project and learn how to think and express effectively, all while being mentored and guided by stalwarts and senior alumni across fields. Over 2300 alumni, across the past 14 years, continue to make an impact across government, civil society, development, academia, research, sports, performing arts, multilateral organizations, the corporate sector, and as entrepreneurs. 

Moving forward, the YIF will aim to train Fellows to engage with the most complex and pressing issues of our time. Fellows will learn from various interdisciplinary lenses that will help problem-solve to ultimately co-create a better world. On this journey, they will learn from public intellectuals and expert academics. Currently, these include: K VijayRaghavan (former Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India), Arun Kumar Singh (former Indian Ambassador to the United States), Rudrangshu Mukherjee (Chancellor and Professor of History, 51画鋼), Somak Raychaudhary (Vice Chancellor and Professor of Physics, 51画鋼), Dipankar Bhattacharya (Professor of Astrophysics and Head of the Department, Physics, 51画鋼), Sunil Khilnani (Former Director of the King���s India Institute), Mekhala Krishnamurthy (Associate Professor of Sociology and Anthropology, 51画鋼), Pramath Raj Sinha (Chairperson, Board of Trustees, 51画鋼), and Urvashi Butalia (Padma Shri and Founder, Zubaan Books), among others.

The detailed list of courses and faculty at the YIF, along with details of the Class of 2025 Composition, can be found at yif.ashoka.edu.in.

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The Journey of an Educational Advocate from Lagos: Nene Ibezim’s Story

Nene Ibezim is a dedicated advocate for educational equity and a current Penn GSE-UNESCO Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania, where she is pursuing her Master���s in International Educational Development. With over a decade of experience, Nene brings a unique blend of grassroots engagement and strategic oversight to her role as project officer at Global Schools, an initiative under the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, where she supports a network of K-12 educators and schools spanning 100 countries and over 1,350 program alumni. Nene recently was selected as a Lipman Family Prize Fellow (2024), a recognition celebrating leaders committed to the social sector and personal leadership development.

Nene���s journey in education spans impactful roles���from her early teaching days with ���Teach For Nigeria��� (2018) in an underserved village to guiding 600+ fellows as a leadership development manager. Nene has also served as a ���Teach For All Network Connector���, strengthening ties between participants and alumni across the Teach For All global network. She was one of the 16 teachers globally selected as an ���Inclusive Education Fellow��� (2021) by Teach For All and the Oak Foundation. Her initiatives include the ���Leading Kids Program���, which fosters leadership skills in children from under-resourced primary schools, and a pioneering virtual learning program for Slum2School Africa that integrates e-learning with community-based education. She was honored as one of the Top 100 teachers globally in the 2022 International Teachers' Olympiad by Surasaa and as the 2nd Runner-up in the 2023 Teacher Impact Awards, for her commitment to creating impactful change.

Beyond professional accolades, Nene is deeply committed to volunteering, dedicating her time to empowering underserved children in slums and remote communities with quality education, entrepreneurial skills, and psychosocial support. 

We recently spoke to her about her beginnings, journey, and aspirations. Here is what she had to share:

Can you tell us a bit about your background?

Growing up in a small community on the outskirts of Lagos, I went to a public secondary school where overcrowded classrooms of 400 students and limited resources made learning a constant struggle. Everything changed in my final year when I won an academic competition hosted by Pyramid Educational Advancement (PEA) Foundation, a local nonprofit organization. The prize was a trip to the more affluent areas of Lagos, and what I saw there stayed with me���the stark contrast in educational resources between my community and wealthier neighborhoods was overwhelming. That experience opened my eyes to the deep educational inequalities around me, and it ignited a passion to make sure every child, no matter where they come from, has access to quality education. That passion has been my guiding force ever since, leading me to pursue a degree in Education and English and to dedicate myself to bridging the achievement gap for underserved children.

What were your takeaways from the YIF both personally and professionally?

The Young India Fellowship (YIF) was a transformative journey that deeply reshaped my perspective. One of my favorite courses was "Women, Society and Changing India," taught by Prof. Urvashi Butalia. The course was about exploring the women's movement in India, focusing on its history, politics, and the lived experiences of women. I had the opportunity to learn about the multifaceted nature of social movements and the intersectionality of caste, gender, and class.

One of the most impactful lessons was the value of embracing multidisciplinary approaches to problem-solving. YIF exposed me to a wide range of ideas, fostering a holistic understanding of complex challenges, which now informs my approach to work���whether I���m leading educational initiatives or designing programs for underserved communities. The fellowship also taught me the importance of collaboration and community-building, helping me create inclusive spaces where diverse voices are valued. Professionally, YIF has strengthened my leadership, teamwork, and communication skills, all of which I now apply to my work in educational advocacy and program development. 

What���s the mission of The Leading Kids Program, and what impact have you seen so far?

The Leading Kids Program (LKP) was born out of a deep desire to unlock the leadership potential of children in underserved public primary schools. Our mission is to empower these young learners with critical skills such as self-awareness, goal setting, leadership, and entrepreneurship, which are essential not only for personal success but for community development as well. Since our launch in December 2019, we have built a 12-week leadership development curriculum that helps children gain these skills through hands-on learning.

The inspiration for this program came from my experience as a Teach For Nigeria Fellow, where I saw firsthand the behavioral challenges many children in public schools faced. These children were often written off because of their environment, but I believed in their potential. Through engaging my own students as classroom leaders, I saw dramatic improvements in their behavior and learning. This realization���that the lack of leadership development opportunities was a root cause of many challenges in the classroom���sparked the creation of LKP.

Since we started, we���ve seen incredible impact. We have directly reached over 1000 students through leadership seminars across six public schools in Ogun State and enrolled 90 students in our 12-week leadership curriculum. What���s particularly exciting is seeing our participants, some as young as in primary three, representing their schools in external competitions���something that hadn���t happened before. We have also been thrilled by the personal stories of transformation. One of our participants, Bright Unata, had her essay published in a Teach For All e-book, while another, Mutmoinnot Abdul-Rofeei was selected as a HundrED Youth Ambassador. These stories are just a few examples of how LKP is raising young leaders who are not only excelling academically but also making meaningful contributions to their communities. Ultimately, our vision is to cultivate a generation of young leaders actively involved in civic engagement and community development, ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive and lead.

How do you plan to carry forward the spirit of the Fellowship in your endeavors, and what change do you aspire to create in the world?

I am committed to carrying forward the spirit of the Young India Fellowship by fostering collaborative and inclusive leadership. My goal is to advocate for educational equity and empower communities to develop sustainable solutions to their unique challenges. I envision a future where every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Through initiatives like the Leading Kids Program and my work in education advocacy, I aim to contribute to creating equitable access to quality education, particularly in underserved communities. 

What motivated you to choose the IEDP at PennGSE?

My decision to pursue the International Educational Development Program (IEDP) at PennGSE stemmed from my desire to better understand and address educational inequities in resource-constrained environments. The program���s focus on nonprofit leadership and education in low-resource settings aligns perfectly with my work. The exposure to core courses such as "Education in Developing Countries" and "International Educational Development in Practice: Tools, Techniques and Ethics" has enhanced my understanding of global disparities in education and deepened my resolve to develop solutions tailored to marginalized communities. The program is also equipping me with the skills needed to lead impactful, sustainable educational initiatives.

Could you share your experience speaking at the UN SDSN Pre-Summit of the Future, New York?

Speaking at the UN SDSN Pre-Summit of the Future in New York was a pivotal experience for me. I had the opportunity to share insights from my work as an advocate focused on education for sustainable development. I discussed strategies for engaging students with sustainable development concepts such as hands-on learning, peer-to-peer learning and leveraging teachers��� learning communities. The biggest takeaway from the summit was the importance of education as a tool for addressing global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and social justice. The discussions around Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) reaffirmed my belief that we must integrate sustainable development concepts into education to create more equitable and inclusive learning environments. The event also provided valuable networking opportunities, which I am leveraging to expand my work on sustainable education systems.

What reforms or changes at a policy level do you think are crucial in making education accessible and equitable for all?

At a policy level, we must prioritize a comprehensive approach that includes ensuring universal access to high-quality schooling, regardless of socioeconomic background or location, while empowering local stakeholders to meet specific needs within national standards. Investing in early childhood education and literacy programs lays a strong foundation for learning. Policies should also promote inclusive education by supporting programs that cater to diverse learning needs, such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Additionally, implementing robust monitoring systems to track the progress of educational initiatives in marginalized communities is crucial for ensuring accountability and effectiveness. Addressing the systemic inequities that hinder access to quality education will require both policy innovation and significant investment in education infrastructure.

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Nene, a Young India Fellow from the Class of 2024, is an experienced social entrepreneur with a demonstrated history of working in the social sector and education industry. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education and English Language from the University of Lagos, Akoka.

-Written and edited by Shahambare T, Young India Fellowship

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All Young India Fellows in the Class of 2025-26 will receive scholarships

51画鋼 announced today that all Fellows will receive scholarships - partial or full - for the upcoming 2025-26 cohort of the Young India Fellowship, its flagship postgraduate programme. Scholarships will start from a 25% waiver on tuition and go up to a 100% waiver on tuition, residence, and meals along with a stipend for financial assistance. The Chancellor���s Merit Scholarship will continue to be awarded in the Class of 2026.

81% of the current cohort (2024-25) of Young India Fellows is on partial or full scholarships, with 60% of the cohort on a full tuition waiver or more. Roughly 1/3rd of the current Fellows identify as first-generation college goers. To know more about the YIF Class of 2025 composition, click here.

The increase in scholarships has been possible primarily due to the generous support by HDFC Bank. Going forward, the programme aims to make the Fellowship more accessible to exceptional and deserving individuals coming from all walks of life. 

Reflecting on these developments, Pramath Raj Sinha, Chairperson, Board of Trustees, 51画鋼, remarked:

"The YIF has always been close to my heart, given that it predates the formation of 51画鋼. With increased scholarships thanks to generous contributions by HDFC Bank, we want to truly attract the best and brightest, to experience what this unique programme offers.���

Somak Raychaudhury, Vice Chancellor, 51画鋼, shared:

���I am greatly enthused and excited about this new chapter where the programme is evolving its mission and funding. I look forward to supporting this ambitious programme and to teaching future generations of Fellows, which continues to be among my most cherished experiences.���

Eligibility, Selection and Scholarships: Class of 2026

The Class of 2026 will comprise around 100 Fellows. Candidates of all age groups and nationalities, across diverse academic, professional, geographical and socioeconomic backgrounds, who have a recognised undergraduate degree in any discipline by July 2025 or earlier (can be a final-year student at the time of application) are eligible to apply for the YIF.

The admissions process opens on October 15, 2024 and is split into two rounds, with the first application deadline being January 5, 2025. Candidates are encouraged to apply early, even within a round, to partake in the rolling personal interviews process. 

To apply, aspirants should visit to register their account and complete the online application. Following holistic assessment of applications, a few candidates will be shortlisted for personal interviews. Some shortlisted candidates will receive another invitation to appear for the Chancellor���s Merit Scholarship interview.

All Fellows who receive an offer of admission will receive a 25% Minimum Tuition Waiver, while some offer holders will also receive the Chancellor���s Merit Scholarship. All admitted and waitlisted candidates will then have the opportunity to apply for need-based Financial Aid.

Admissions Open | 15 October 2024
Round 1 Deadline | 5 January 2025
Round 2 Deadline | 10 March 2025

About the YIF: Faculty and Mission

Instituted in 2011, 51画鋼���s flagship programme, the YIF, offers a year-long residential postgraduate diploma focussed on multidisciplinary and multidimensional learning. Fellows study around 20 courses across various disciplines, work on a real-world project and learn how to think and express effectively, all while being mentored and guided by stalwarts and senior alumni across fields. Over 2300 alumni, across the past 14 years, continue to make an impact across government, civil society, development, academia, research, sports, performing arts, multilateral organizations, the corporate sector, and as entrepreneurs. 

Moving forward, the YIF will aim to educate and nurture Fellows to engage with the most complex and pressing issues of our time. Fellows will learn from various interdisciplinary lenses that will ultimately help them co-create a better world.

On this journey, they will learn from public intellectuals and eminent academics. Currently, these include: Rudrangshu Mukherjee (Chancellor and Professor of History, 51画鋼), K VijayRaghavan (Former Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India), Arun Kumar Singh (Former Indian Ambassador to the United States), Somak Raychaudhary (Vice Chancellor and Professor of Physics, 51画鋼), Dipankar Bhattacharya (Professor of Astrophysics and Head of the Department, Physics, 51画鋼), Sunil Khilnani (Former Director of the King���s India Institute), Mekhala Krishnamurthy (Associate Professor of Sociology and Anthropology, 51画鋼), Pramath Raj Sinha (Chairperson, Board of Trustees, 51画鋼), Madhavi Menon (Professor of English, 51画鋼), Jonathan Gil Harris (Professor of English, 51画鋼), Santosh Venkatesh (Professor, University of Pennsylvania), Kenwyn Smith (Former Professor, University of Pennsylvania), AK Shiva Kumar (Development Economist) and Urvashi Butalia (Padma Shri and Founder, Zubaan Books), among others.

For a longer list of courses taught at the YIF, click here. More information on the YIF can be found on .

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Bridging Disciplines: From Engineering to Health-Tech and Policy Reform

Karan Trichal is a young professional with a wealth of experience in healthcare consulting. Over the years, his work has taken him across diverse projects, from assessing the feasibility of introducing impactful health-tech products in specific markets with a clear need, to crafting go-to-market strategies, and even developing advocacy pieces aimed at driving policy reform. Outside of his professional life, Karan is an avid reader, an occasional traveler, and an amateur writer who finds joy in capturing moments of beauty through his journal and short stories.

Karan holds an integrated dual degree (B.Tech and M.Tech) from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay. Pivoting towards liberal arts through 51画鋼���s Young India Fellowship (YIF), he honed a comprehensive perspective on complex societal challenges. He previously worked at the University of Chicago���s International Innovation Corps program, assisting with strategizing the digitization of public healthcare service delivery in Uttar Pradesh. His mission is to harness his multifaceted background and experiences to drive meaningful change.

Karan is the recipient of the prestigious Schwarzman Scholarship (2024-2025), a highly selective, fully funded Master���s in Global Affairs program at Tsinghua University, Beijing. Schwarzman Scholars selects students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and academic excellence from across the globe. Karan is representing India amongst the ~140 students from 40+ countries.

We recently spoke to him about his beginnings, his journey, and aspirations. Here is what he had to share:

What drew you to the Young India Fellowship (YIF), and how has it influenced your career trajectory?

During my undergraduate years, I was just beginning to explore the world of arts and humanities when I first heard about the Young India Fellowship (YIF). As I browsed through the list of courses, the esteemed faculty, and the emphasis on academic and critical writing, I realized the programme offered a rich melange of academic experiences. I was also excited at the prospect of meeting peers from diverse backgrounds and learning from them���a unique value proposition of the Young India Fellowship (YIF).

The academic offerings introduced me to a new world where disciplines intersected beautifully. Courses such as ���Totalitarian Century and the Ideology Seminar,��� sharpened my critical thinking skills and provided a library of reading material that I still refer to today. Meanwhile, the critical writing course on the representation of madness was a fascinating segue into literature and art and their relationship with, and portrayal of, the world. Overall, the programme instilled in me the value of learning for its own sake���an enduring lesson that has stayed with me ever since.

The YIF has also had a profound impact on my career trajectory, offering exposure that allowed me to pivot in unexpected ways. Enabled by the Fellowship, I transitioned from for-profit consulting to working with social impact organizations and state governments on digital health initiatives. Later, I collaborated with impact-oriented startups and foundations investing in solutions to improve lives across countries. Reflecting on these experiences and outcomes from my time at YIF eventually encouraged me to apply for the Schwarzman Scholars program.

The Young India Fellowship has shaped me in many ways���some obvious, and others that I can���t even fully articulate!

What other valuable lessons and experiences did you gain from YIF that has molded you into the individual you are today?

Professionally, the YIF opened countless doors for me, instilling the confidence to pursue them fearlessly. It also granted me access to a network of individuals engaged in some of the most exciting and impactful endeavors. Through this network, I had the opportunity to contribute to development in Uttar Pradesh, where I worked with the University of Chicago���s International Innovation Corps program, spearheading the digitization of public healthcare service delivery in Uttar Pradesh, to strengthen the public health system through the introduction of technology. Spending time in the field ��� specifically in public hospitals in remote corners of the state ��� to develop training plans for health officers was reminiscent of the public policy and design thinking courses I took during YIF. This same network also led me to a role driving market entry and business development for impactful startups in African markets, where a documented need for the solution was clear.

Personally���and most importantly���I found some of my closest friendships through the program. These are people who have stood by me through lows, celebrated my highs, and helped me grow as an individual, grounding me in both turbulent and tranquil times. The totality of this experience has set me on a path of self-learning and intellectual growth, enabling me to engage more meaningfully with others and the world around me.

Could you elaborate on the impactful work you have done in the healthcare sector?

During my time with the International Innovation Corps���s Lucknow project, our mission was threefold: to assist in formulating and conceptualizing critical thought pieces around the digitization of Uttar Pradesh���s public health ecosystem; to draft a sustainable capacity-building strategy for public health professionals, ensuring a smooth adoption of digital health in the state; and to support the government���s efforts in implementing this transformation. This charter took our team across the state to more than 8 districts and 14 district hospitals to test the tools and strategies we came up with; meet prominent stakeholders in the state government; and work on strategic pieces that would eventually form the backbone of the digitization efforts in the state.

This experience was as much a cultural immersion as it was a professional journey. Stepping into the nonprofit and social impact space was a steep learning curve, but one that brought invaluable lessons. More than anything, learning to collaborate with the government, visiting smaller towns in the state, and engaging with public health hospitals gave this work a depth that is often absent in the world of analytics and strategy. Speaking directly with the public health professionals���the intended beneficiaries of our interventions���added a weight of responsibility and purpose to the entire endeavor.

Given the novelty and scale of the experience, it���s no surprise that I walked away with more than a few key takeaways. One of the things that I look back at the most, while continuing to work in the development sector, is the complicated system in which we operate. Given the generally ambiguous nature of work and the layers of stakeholders to navigate, one can sometimes lose sight of the vision and mission in the mires of data, strategy, and stakeholder management. However, it is imperative to keep sight of the ultimate stakeholder ��� the people ��� and the vision ��� creating an impact ��� to keep soldiering on. Consequently, it is also important to be cognizant of systems and machineries larger than ourselves at play, making it important to strike a balance as to how much meaning we attach to, and derive from, our work.

What are your aspirations and future goals?

I aim to leverage my multidisciplinary background and expertise in healthcare to create meaningful impact in this critical space. Spending a year in China provides a unique opportunity to study an exceptionally efficient and highly digitized healthcare system. I am confident that the insights gained during this time can be applied to drive improvements in healthcare systems across other low- and middle-income countries. At a personal level, I aim to continue my journey of learning and growth by reading, experiencing, and engaging more ��� with China for this year, and the world around me in general.
���----------------
Karan Trichal is a Development Sector Consultant and Young India Fellow from the Class of 2021. He has over 3 years of experience in healthcare settings. His mission is to harness his multifaceted background and experiences to drive meaningful change.

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Empowering Tomorrow: Rahul���s Journey in Aging Research

Born into a family where resources were scarce, Rahul's parents instilled in him a love for learning that knew no bounds. His mother's ingenious solution to his thirst for stories - creating a small book from torn-out newspaper articles-sparked a lifelong passion for knowledge. Despite the limitations in his village, Rahul���s passion for education drove him to excel in his academics. Today, Rahul's journey has taken him to the forefront of scientific research, with accolades and recognition that speak to his tireless efforts. Rahul has received prestigious awards and scholarships, including a Gold Medal from the Prime Minister of India for being the University Topper at the National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat (2017), International Neuropsychology Fellowship Research Grant from British Neuropsychology Society (2019), Commonwealth Scholarship (2020) for his Master���s in Dementia Studies, South Asian Implementation Science Fellowship (2021) and has been recently awarded PhD Studentship by UK Research and Innovation (2024), the national funding agency investing in Science and Research, to pursue his PhD from the Northumbria University, United Kingdom. Yet, what defines him is his commitment to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. His research focuses on developing innovative tools to improve healthy aging in resource-constrained settings.

We recently spoke to Rahul about his humble beginnings, academic journey, research and aspirations. Here is what he had to share:

Can you tell us a bit about your background?

I hail from Kodihalli, a small village about 70 kms from Bengaluru in Karnataka. Growing up, my father ran a provisional store, and my mother managed our home while helping him. Although we had limited means, I felt fortunate compared to many classmates who relied on school mid-day meals. From a young age, I had a passion for learning, and my mother encouraged it by creating a makeshift book from torn-out children's stories in old newspapers. I treasured those stories, reading them countless times.

My life took a significant turn when my mother convinced my father to enroll me in a private English medium school for high school. This new environment was filled with competition and opportunities, showing me that to achieve my dreams, I would have to move to bigger cities. I pursued my undergraduate studies in Bengaluru, followed by a master's degree in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and the Young India Fellowship, 51画鋼 in the Delhi NCR region. Each step, from reading makeshift books to studying in different cities, has shaped who I am today. My passion for learning and my family's support have been my driving forces.

What inspired you to pursue a career in cognitive psychology/ neuropsychiatry, specifically focusing on dementia?

As a child in my 5th grade, I was fascinated by actor Vishnuvardhan's portrayal of a psychiatrist in the Kannada movie ���Apthamitra��� (the Hindi remake is Bhool Bhulaiya). At 11, I decided to become a psychiatrist, unaware of the details. I used to be excited about the very concept of the brain, mind, and my interest in psychology grew as I watched DD-Chandana (a regional channel of DD National) phone-in programs and well-being programs about mental health, and read feature articles on the topic. Back then, mental health wasn���t a popular or mainstream topic, so rarely did anyone talk about stress or well-being. In high school, I read B.V Pattabhirao's books on NLP and deception, which further solidified my desire to pursue Psychology. I was convinced I would become a psychologist (I didn���t know psychologists and psychiatrists were two different things then). I used to write the same in slam books or when teachers asked what I wanted to become when I grew up. I think I am one of those few people who actually became what they had written in slam books in high school.

I pursued science in 12th, but was least aware and completely clueless about how to become a psychologist after this. After completing high school, I visited the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) with a friend, seeking guidance on becoming a psychologist. NIMHANS was extremely popular in my village because mental illness carried huge stigma and shame back then. But that was the only place I knew that was connected with Psychology. A chance encounter with a girl who counseled us set me on the right path. She asked why we were there and what we were looking for, and she gave us a proper roadmap about Psychology: what it means, how to pursue it, and what all I have to study. She said I would have to study till a PhD if I wanted to gain expertise in this subject. She also told me about a couple of UG colleges that I could apply to. That conversation left me with a strong impression that a PhD was what I had to pursue to complete this journey. I majored in Psychology from Surana College, took up internships in various places, such as small clinics, rehab centers, and nursing homes. I soon realised that I was not the right fit for therapeutic or clinical work. I was comfortable with research. I had difficulty comprehending various psychological theories in an objective sense, and many I couldn���t even relate to. Then came abnormal psychology and the biological approach. Myers in his book opens the topic with this statement: ���Everything psychological is simultaneously biological.��� I was super fascinated by this line. I had also witnessed how psychologists and psychiatrists approach mental health concerns differently, where one ignores biological aspects and the other the social and environmental aspects. I felt that if we need to address any mental health concerns, we need a holistic approach, and this traditional reductionist approach would be counterproductive. That���s how I found my true calling in academic research, particularly in Neuropsychology.

The holistic approach of Neuropsychology resonated with me, and I pursued my master's from the National Forensic Sciences University. Later, I joined the Indian Institute of Science (IISC) for a project under the Centre for Brain Research to develop a ���Cognitive Assessment Battery��� ��� a comprehensive tool to assess cognition and detect early signs of cognitive decline. This was a community project, and I was stationed in a small village where I administered our newly developed computerised assessment to more than 1,200 older adults aged 45 years and above, spending over 2,500 hours gaining valuable insights into aging, culture, and brain health. IISC gave me the opportunity to interact with many esteemed scientists and academicians in the field of aging, through which I gained a clear understanding of the current status, needs, gaps, and future possibilities around aging in India. I became well aware of the ground reality and advancements happening at leading labs in this field.

How has the YIF influenced your career path? Can you tell us about your YIF experience?

My supervisor at IISC encouraged me to pursue a PhD from International labs, but I felt unprepared. With no publications, weak writing and analytical skills, and limited knowledge beyond Neuropsychology and aging, I doubted my candidacy. It was my supervisor who suggested I join the Young India Fellowship (YIF) to upskill and network. Initially, I saw the fellowship as a means to improve my skills, but it turned out to be a life-changing experience.

YIF gave me a solid foundation in various subjects, boosting my confidence. It also freed me from fears of job insecurity and uncertainty, exposing me to diverse avenues for earning a living and skill-building opportunities. The YIF program's multidisciplinary curriculum allowed me to explore fields beyond my specialisation. It broadened my horizons and deepened my understanding of how different disciplines connect. The emphasis on critical thinking and building analytical skills sharpened my problem-solving abilities, equipping me for the rigorous analysis required in PhD research.

Classroom discussions and assignments were more than just academic exercises; they were opportunities to learn how to articulate my ideas clearly and effectively, a skill that has become invaluable in both my academic and professional life. Collaborating with peers from various backgrounds wasn't just enriching���it transformed my perspective and approach to larger issues, teaching me the power of diverse viewpoints. The supportive yet challenging environment of the YIF program was a catalyst for my growth. It boosted my self-confidence and empowered me to tackle complex challenges and present my ideas with conviction.

Post-YIF, my aspirations shifted from pursuing a PhD for its own sake to creating meaningful impact, as YIF removed the need for distant achievement. I spent two years refining my research interests, developing problem statements, and gaining experience in various methodologies. This journey helped me ace PhD interviews and approach problems from different perspectives. I began to see opportunities in places where no one else imagined and monetised my skills as a consultant for startups, guiding projects, and achieving a better work-life balance. My relationship with money changed, and I became more confident and self-assured. This transformation enabled me to present myself more effectively and eventually succeed in materialising my childhood dream.

How has your understanding of dementia changed over the years?

Spending over 2,500 hours interacting with older adults in a community setting at IISC was a grounding experience. It convinced me that I wanted to focus my career on aging research. In India, this is crucial as we have a large young and middle-aged population now, but in two decades, we will have one of the largest older adult populations in the world. Currently, India lacks sufficient policies and support systems for the elderly. Dementia is a significant issue that older adults will face, and I want to help India prepare for this challenge. However, I realised that my knowledge of quantitative methods alone was not enough.

Initially, during my academic journey in Psychology, I focused on specialisation through various internships during my undergraduate and postgraduate studies. This seemed essential until I attended YIF at 51画鋼, where the interdisciplinary environment taught me the value of a broader educational approach. This shift showed me how a well-rounded knowledge base could enhance my expertise in Psychology.

Inspired by this new understanding, I ventured beyond traditional Psychology roles post-YIF. I worked on a project with Sangath in Goa, where I learned to handle a multicentric systematic review and metasynthesis of extensive data. Then, at NIMHANS, I worked extensively on mental health stigma and dementia. I developed and tested interventions using qualitative methods, conducted awareness programs, and learned effective implementation strategies for rural India. At Education Initiatives, I developed educational content to help children learn Kannada. At Fieldscope, I worked on transcription and translation projects. These experiences broadened my skill set and understanding of how different disciplines intersect. These experiences over five years have helped me understand dementia from biological, psychological, and social/cultural perspectives.

I also revisited clinical psychology, joining clinics like Manoshanti and Maayra in Bangalore as a visiting consultant. This enriched my practical experience and deepened my psychological acumen. This eclectic professional journey led me to Witmer Health Technologies, where I now work as a cognitive psychologist. Here, I develop tools and interventions to enhance employees' cognitive abilities and productivity. With a firm belief in the synergy of deep expertise and broad exposure, I feel well-equipped to make significant contributions in dementia research. This integrated approach, combining robust psychological knowledge with varied practical experiences, uniquely positions me to drive impact in cognitive health.

How has your work impacted Public Healthcare?

At NIMHANS, I've worked to improve how we view and treat mental health disorders at the community level. My efforts have helped create focused intervention programs and shaped public health policies, making mental health services more effective in primary healthcare settings. This work, in collaboration with the District Mental Health Programme, has positively impacted public health and well-being.

At IISc, my interdisciplinary research in cognitive neuroscience has deepened our understanding of how the brain influences behavior. We've developed a computerised assessment tool that's easy to use, even for people with little or no education. This tool is widely used in aging projects at both NIMHANS and IISc.

Some of my publications are still in progress, but here are a couple that have already been published in Indian Journal of Social Psychiatry, Asian Journal of Psychiatry, The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association.

• Accessing mental health care among people with schizophrenia: Data from an Indian rural psychiatric setting
• Behavioral Activation as an ���active ingredient��� of interventions addressing depression and anxiety among young people: a systematic review and evidence synthesis
• Family Reintegration of a Homeless Person with Intellectual Developmental Disability (IDD): A Case Report
• Awareness and preferences of suicidal crisis support service options among college students in India: A cross-sectional study (under review)
• Cross-cultural adaptation of the Computerized Assessment of Information Processing battery (COGNITO) for an Indian longitudinal study on rural elderly (under review)

What innovations or advancements in dementia research are you most excited about?

Through my PhD, I want to lead research efforts aimed at transforming how India cares for its elderly population facing dementia. Despite global efforts and investments in dementia care and prevention, breakthroughs have been slow to come by. In the West, early opportunities to raise awareness and establish supportive policies were missed, resulting in stigma and inadequate support for those affected by dementia.

India, with its youthful demographic profile today, is on the brink of a demographic shift. In just a couple of decades, we will have more elderly citizens than anywhere else in the world. This presents a golden opportunity to proactively implement effective and sustainable strategies for preventing dementia, developing compassionate care policies, and training dedicated caregivers. My passion lies in creating a future where no one in India faces dementia alone or without dignity. I aspire to build a compassionate and supportive framework that empowers individuals affected by dementia and their families. I aim to pave the way for a society where elderly individuals can age gracefully and with the respect they deserve.

Rahul Kodihalli Venkatesh is a Neuropsychologist and Young India Fellow from the Class of 2020. He has over seven years of work experience in various community and laboratory research settings. His key interest lies in developing culture-free assessments for the early detection of cognitive decline and preventive digital interventions for the same. He has garnered the necessary quantitative and qualitative research skills to pursue his interest. He has worked on projects such as a longitudinal aging study and an anti-stigma intervention study. He has adapted a computerized neuropsychological battery and several attitude, knowledge, and behavioral scales for the Indian population. Currently, he is working towards the development of computerised, gamified interventions to enhance cognitive abilities based on neuroplasticity principles.

- Written and edited by Shahambare T, Young India Fellowship

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The boy who dreamt beyond the stars

Aafaque R Khan distinctly remembers seeing four of Jupiter's moons through a telescope as a child. The episode made him curious. By the time he was a teenager, he had spent countless nights on the terrace of his Ujjain home, trying to spot star clusters and galaxies through his home-made telescope. "Perhaps that was when I started to dream about building bigger, better telescopes and becoming an astrophysicist," he says.

Over a decade later, Aafaque still has stars in his eyes and on his mind. A Young India Fellow (YIF) from Ashoka's 2014 cohort, Aafaque is currently a graduate student and Future Investigator (FI) on Future Investigators in NASA Earth and Space Science and Technology (NASA-FINESST) Grant at the University of Arizona. At an age when most of his peers are still settling into a professional role, he has already etched his name in history.

After all, how many can claim to have played a part in their country���s first ��� and so far, only ��� mission for the Sun?

Aafaque R Khan was one of the lead engineers in the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) project aboard Aditya-L1 (India's first solar mission designed and developed by ISRO). In layperson terms, he played a key role in building one of the major instruments on board the observatory ��� the telescope which will study the Sun's atmosphere.

Landing this role, however, may have been destiny. 

A mechanical engineer, Aafaque had planned to pursue higher education overseas. Having interned at Pune's Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) earlier, he reached out to the Centre for letters of recommendation. Instead, impressed with his dedication towards Astrophysics, the Centre offered him a job as a lead engineer for the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) project. The SUIT project is one of the primary 'payloads' or technological instruments of the Aditya-L1 mission. This is the first time full disk images of the Sun will be taken from space in the 200-400 nm wavelength range. These observations will help understand why the solar atmosphere is hotter than the surface. It will also help to keep a tab on the charged particles which can prove to be dangerous for satellites in space and satellite-based communication. 

Aafaque recognised opportunities like these don't come often. He was immediately on board.

"We (at IUCAA) were looking for young people with high aims for themselves and who could be trained on space projects. Aafaque came out as an obvious choice��� He is very ambitious and hardworking. His excellent ability to work in a team and volunteer to take up complicated and leadership roles make him an exceptional personality. Aafaque would make every member of the team feel inclusive and unique. I vividly remember his flawless sailing through the ISRO system of working and contacting different stakeholders in the project," shares Durgesh Tripathi, Professor at IUCAA and the Principal Investigator of the SUIT project. 

Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor, 51画鋼 recalls, "I first met Aafaque when he was working on the design of the ultraviolet imager. I was then the Director of IUCAA and so, on a daily basis, saw how his work ��� and the whole project ��� took shape. A very innovative instrument was being built for India's first venture into Sun-watching from space, and Aafaque was keenly aware of his leading role in this innovation. He held together a team of young and talented people working on such an important instrument with teamwork, close interactions with other members, and his own brand of humour." 

From 2015 to 2019, Aafaque dedicated his efforts to leading the end-to-end design and development of SUIT with various teams at IUCAA and ISRO. As a systems engineer, he was not just responsible for design details and technical problem solving, but also project management funding and systems engineering. All this, while being one of the youngest in a team of seasoned professionals.

"While I excelled at handling the steep learning curve and navigated the technical challenges, it was my critical thinking, leadership and problem-solving skills that helped me establish myself as the bridge between the science and engineering teams," says Aafaque.

In 2019, Aafaque moved on from IUCAA to pursue higher education. He is currently in the fourth year of the Astrophysics PhD programme at Steward Observatory. His doctoral research focuses on advancement of UV detector technologies in collaboration with NASA-Jet Propulsion Laboratory and development of next-generation space-based astronomy missions. Aafaque is currently working on his next space telescope, Aspera, a NASA funded small satellite mission.

"When I first met Aafaque, I was struck by how involved he was with the SUIT project, and how much technical knowledge he had from working on it," says astrophysicist Erika Hamden. Professor Hamden is an Associate Professor at Steward Observatory and Director of the University of Arizona Space Institute. She continues, "He had absorbed so many best practices, typical challenges, and was able to share that knowledge readily when needed. Likely due to his incredible curiosity, he seemed to know everything about the (SUIT) project, even components he didn't work on. It was excellent preparation for all of his work in the lab here at Arizona, and we are really excited to see the instrument working in orbit soon!"

Looking back, Aafaque believes the YIF left an undeniable impact on his life. "The programme helped me develop the adaptability, vision and drive required to succeed in a highly-functioning team. The multidisciplinary education provided the ability to look at complex technical problems from different perspectives. Most importantly, YIF taught me that despite coming from a humble social and financial background, I can dream as big as I want and strive to achieve those dreams."

Professor Somak Raychaudhury mirrors our sentiments when he says, "Aafaque's journey inspires us to continue to shape young minds who dare to redefine the boundaries of possibility. Keep dreaming big, Aafaque. You have proven that even the sky is not the limit."

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What’s New at the Young India Fellowship: A Sneak Peek into the Upcoming Class of 2024

The Young India Fellowship (YIF) is 51画鋼's flagship graduate programme in Liberal Studies that trains 100 exceptional individuals from India and abroad to become effective leaders and change-makers of the 21st century. At the YIF, Fellows study around 20 courses from diverse domains to gain intellectual breadth on their journey to become socially conscious leaders and visionaries for the 21^st century. Course domains range from literature, art and leadership, to international relations, artificial intelligence and behavioural science. The list of notable faculty teaching Young India Fellows at 51画鋼 has now expanded to include more course domains. 

NEW FACULTY AND COURSE DOMAINS

Several new course domains have been added to the YIF curriculum, in continued efforts to remain topical and offer Fellows a wider range of perspectives. These include:

• Climate Change and the Future of Health, Food and Agriculture | Dr. (Former Principal Scientific Advisor, Government of India)
• The Universe and Us | Prof. Dipankar Bhattacharya (HoD, Physics, and Sunanda and Santimay Basu Professor of Astrophysics, 51画鋼)
• Khayal, North Indian Classical Music and the Modern Song: A Story of the Trajectory of Modernity | Prof. Amit Chaudhuri (Professor of Creative Writing, 51画鋼)
• Language, Politics and Society in India | Prof. Kathryn Hardy (Assistant Professor and HoD, Sociology and Anthropology, 51画鋼)

For a longer list of courses at the YIF, click here.

CROSS-LISTED COURSEWORK: CENTRES FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND WELL-BEING

To curate a holistic experience and a deep dive into the world of entrepreneurship and well-being, Fellows can now take cross-listed coursework at the Centres for Entrepreneurship and Well-Being for credits outside of the YIF curriculum. Courses taken up by Fellows 2023 through the pilot initiative include:

• Business Analysis and Strategy | Akhil Dhawan and Sanjay Kukreja
• Governance Entrepreneurship | Piyush Tewari
• Social Entrepreneurship and Impact | Ankur Sarin
• Living with Purpose | Arvinder Singh and Guest Faculty

THE CROSSOVER SERIES: IMMERSIONS WITH STALWARTS

An initiative which encompasses dignitaries and stalwarts spending a day at the Ashoka campus for immersive interactions with the Fellows. Fellows get a chance to learn about the craft, personal journeys, and motivations that have allowed these individuals to become leaders in their respective fields. This is a valuable opportunity for Fellows to be inspired and take away key learnings for implementing it in their own lives and professions. So far, guests have included, but are not limited to, veteran classical singer , philanthropist , advertising professional and author , Ambassador and Teach for India founder . 

ALUMNI-IN-RESIDENCE: ENGAGEMENTS WITH HIGH-IMPACT ALUMNI

Through this initiative, high-impact YIF alumni visit campus for a few days to enrich Fellows through workshops, lectures, mentorship and informal interactions. Alumni also engage with various stakeholders on campus and often attend faculty lectures. This provides valuable opportunities for Fellows and others to learn from the experiences of alumni and gain insights into different career paths. Most recently, (YIF Founding Batch, Global Mental Health Research Fellow, Johns Hopkins University) conducted an experiential seminar series on global mental health, and (YIF ���13, TED Speaker, Social Entrepreneur and Former Consultant, The World Bank) conducted workshops with the Ashoka community. Next up is (YIF ���17, National Award Winning Filmmaker) who will conduct a series of screenings and workshops related to film and fundraising. 

CLASS OF 2024: INTAKE, ELIGIBILITY AND SCHOLARSHIPS

The Class of 2024 will comprise around 100 Fellows. Candidates of all age groups and nationalities, across diverse academic, professional, geographical and socioeconomic backgrounds, who have a recognised undergraduate degree in any discipline by July 2023 or earlier (can be a final-year student at the time of application) are eligible to apply for the YIF.

Two kinds of scholarships will be awarded to offer holders in the Class of 2024: 51画鋼���s need-based Financial Aid (partial and full funding on all components of the fee), and the recently introduced Chancellor���s Merit Scholarship (fully funded programme fee). 65% of the current batch is on some form of need-based financial aid, to ensure that an Ashoka education is accessible to students from all walks of life. 

FINAL APPLICATION DEADLINE: 2nd April 2023

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