Pratham CEO recognised as a "Changemaker of 2024" by Outlook Business
We’re thrilled to share that our CEO, Dr Rukmini Banerji is being celebrated as one of Outlook Business’s, “Changemakers of 2024”, a list which highlights leaders who are driving meaningful change in their respective fields. Dr Banerji’s inclusion in this prestigious list underscores her role as a catalyst for educational reform and celebrates not just her achievements but also her unwavering commitment to creating a more equitable future through education.
Transforming education through data and innovation
One of Dr Banerji’s most notable contributions is spearheading the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), a groundbreaking initiative that provides critical insights into the state of learning among children in rural India. Launched in 2005, ASER has become one of the largest citizen-led surveys globally and a crucial tool for policymakers, educators, and researchers. The survey’s emphasis on measuring foundational skills like reading and arithmetic has brought much-needed attention to learning outcomes rather than just school enrolment figures.
In addition to ASER, Dr Banerji has championed innovative approaches like Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL), a methodology that groups children based on their learning levels rather than age or grade. This approach has been widely recognised for its efficacy in improving foundational literacy and numeracy skills. TaRL’s success has transcended borders, influencing educational strategies in several countries across Africa and Asia.
Empowering communities
In addition to her incredible professional accolades, Dr Banerji’s work goes beyond numbers and methodologies. Her leadership is deeply rooted in the belief that sustainable change can only happen by empowering communities. Pratham’s initiatives, under her guidance, have actively involved parents, particularly mothers, and local volunteers in the educational journey of children. This community-driven model ensures that learning extends beyond classrooms, creating a supportive ecosystem that nurtures children’s growth.
A vision for the future
As Pratham continues to grow, Dr Banerji remains focused on addressing the evolving challenges in education. Whether it’s combating learning loss due to the pandemic or scaling innovative models to reach more children, her vision is clear: to ensure every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
Dr Banerji’s recognition as a Changemaker is not just an individual achievement; it’s a reflection of Pratham’s impact and the promise of a brighter future for millions of children. It serves as a reminder of the power of education to transform lives and the importance of leaders who dare to dream big and act decisively.
In her response to this recognition, Dr Banerji credited the collective efforts of Pratham’s team, partners, and the communities they serve. “This honour reflects the incredible work of everyone at Pratham and the trust that millions of parents and children have placed in us. Together, we are proving that change is possible when we work hand in hand,” she said.