Education as Revolution: Raju Kendre’s Journey of Change

Raju Kendre’s journey began in the remote tribal belts of Vidarbha, Maharashtra. Born into a nomadic community where early marriages and lack of education were common, Raju’s parents could not finish even primary school. Yet, he dreamed big. At 18, he aspired to become an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, believing that it would allow him to improve lives like those of his family members who had worked their entire lives on farms. In 2011, Raju traveled over 300 miles to Pune to pursue higher education. Despite his excellent academic record, he faced financial hardships, cultural isolation, and the alienation of being a first-generation university student.After dropping out of Pune University due to financial and social pressures, he continued his studies through distance learning while working with grassroots organizations. Witnessing the struggles of indigenous communities' children walking over 100 miles for a basic degree and generations trapped in poverty, Raju realized that becoming a bureaucrat would not fulfill his desire for real, hands-on change.Founding the Eklavya India FoundationThis realization led Raju to join the prestigious Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), and later complete his post-graduation at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, as a Chevening scholar. Inspired to give back, he founded the Eklavya India Foundation. Since its inception eight years ago, the foundation has reached over five lakh underprivileged Dalit and tribal youth from more than 25 states. Most of these students are first-generation learners, navigating higher education without family support. The foundation focuses on breaking barriers to quality education, providing mentorship, workshops, and residential programs.Transforming Lives Through EducationThe impact of Raju’s work is visible in the stories of his students. Over 2000 tribal and Dalit youths have received guidance that enabled them to gain admission to top national and international universities. Notable examples include Nazar Mohideen from Kerala, now studying Public Health at Harvard Medical School. Eknath Wagh from Maharashtra, pursuing Postgraduate studies in Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School. Through around 700 workshops and mentorship programs, the foundation has guided students in navigating applications, scholarships, and career choices. The foundation has helped students secure over $7 million in scholarships from government programs, private trusts, and globally renowned institutions. Challenges of Sustaining the MissionDespite the success, sustaining the mission is challenging. The foundation’s annual expenditure is around Rs 1.5 crore, and while support comes from institutions like the Echoing Green Fellowship, Nudge Foundation, Mariwala Health Initiative, and individual donors, resources remain limited. Currently, the foundation operates from a rented campus in a remote tribal region, which lacks infrastructure, networking opportunities, and proximity to leading universities. Raju envisions establishing a central institution in central India, a hub for mentorship, workshops, and training for tribal youth. He believes that with sustained corporate and institutional support, the foundation can reach far more students, especially in regions where educational resources are scarce.Recognition and the Road AheadRaju Kendre’s work has not gone unnoticed. He recently received the British Council’s Global Alumni Award for social action, recognizing his relentless efforts to democratize education in India. Yet, his focus remains firmly on the future. With the right support, Raju plans to expand the foundation’s reach, create a permanent center for learning and mentorship, and continue nurturing India’s underrepresented youth. He urges corporates and philanthropists to step forward and partner in his mission, emphasizing that education is the most powerful tool for social transformation. The Eklavya India Foundation proves that access to higher education can dismantle cycles of poverty, inspire communities, and create future leaders who can drive social change in India.