Poori Padhai: How CRY Is Making Full Education Accessible to Children

Every child carries a spark of potential. When children are given the chance to learn freely, to grow without fear, and to dream without limits, that spark transforms into a light that can illuminate their lives—and the nation’s future. Yet, for millions of children across India, the journey to complete education is filled with obstacles. CRY (Child Rights and You) has been walking alongside these children for decades, ensuring that poori padhai is not just a dream, but a reality that every child deserves.

The Importance of Education for All Children

Education opens doors. It nurtures curiosity, builds confidence, and empowers children to shape their own lives. For children in underserved communities, it can mean the difference between being confined by circumstance and discovering the freedom to explore, imagine, and create.

Across CRY project areas, 95% of children aged 6–18 are now in school, a figure that reflects not only the children’s determination but also the collective effort of families, communities, and CRY’s programs to protect their right to learn. Even for adolescents between 15–18 years, enrolment and retention is 18% higher than the national average (UDISE+ 2023-24). These numbers tell a story of hope—a story that begins when a child steps into a classroom with the promise of knowledge and the support to stay the course.

Why Education Is a Fundamental Right for Every Child

The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, guarantees free and compulsory schooling for children up to 14 years of age. Yet, many children—especially as they grow older—face barriers that prevent them from completing higher grades. Economic pressures, long distances to schools, societal expectations, and insufficient infrastructure can all pull children away from classrooms.

Despite these challenges, CRY’s initiatives ensure that children continue learning, retaining the joy of discovery, and building skills that can shape their future. In the communities we serve, 83% of adolescents aged 15–18 are now in school, and 84% of students transition from grade 12 to higher education, proving that with support, children can overcome obstacles and realize their potential.

CRY's Mission: Ensuring Inclusive Education for Every Child

CRY’s work is rooted in the belief that education should be inclusive, accessible, and meaningful for every child. We aim to protect and preserve the educational journey of children who face challenges in staying in school.

From enrolment drives that ensure no child is left out, to remedial programs for those who have fallen behind, CRY works to create pathways for children to learn and thrive. Schools are strengthened, teachers are trained, and communities are engaged—so that children, regardless of where they come from, can enjoy learning in a safe and supportive environment.

Key Achievements in Education

The impact of these efforts is tangible. In CRY project areas:

• 95% of children aged 6–18 are in school.
• 99% of adolescent girls aged 11–18 are protected from child marriage.
• Enrollment and retention for children aged 15–18 is 18% higher than the national GER.

This quarter alone, CRY reached 2.23 million children, ensuring they continue their journey in school and beyond.

These figures are more than numbers—they represent children whose education, dreams, and futures are being safeguarded.

The Challenges Children Face in Accessing Education

While progress has been made, challenges remain. Children in rural and urban communities often navigate:

• Long distances to schools and unsafe routes
• Schools lacking basic infrastructure or learning materials
• Economic pressures that push them toward work instead of study
• Interruptions in schooling due to migration or family circumstances

Overcoming these barriers requires more than policy—it demands a sustained, compassionate effort. And that is precisely what CRY’s programs strive to provide: a support system that keeps children learning and dreaming.

Also Read: Free Education

How CRY Supports the Education for All Campaign

CRY’s work is closely aligned with India’s education for all campaign. By building and renovating schools, providing learning materials, and fostering inclusive learning environments, CRY ensures children have the tools they need to succeed.

Teachers are trained to create nurturing, inclusive classrooms, while communities are encouraged to take active roles in supporting education. Workshops with parents help families understand the importance of keeping their children in school, protecting them from early marriage, and nurturing their potential.

Through these efforts, children are not just attending school—they are learning, growing, and preparing to contribute meaningfully to society.

The Role of Inclusive Education in a Progressive Society

Education that is inclusive ensures that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, can access opportunities to learn and thrive. Inclusive education nurtures curiosity, empathy, and collaboration—skills that strengthen communities and drive national progress.

Children who receive such education are empowered to make informed decisions, pursue careers of their choice, and contribute positively to society. In essence, inclusive education transforms not just individual lives, but the entire nation.

Also Read: Inclusive Education

Poori Padhai, Desh Ki Bhalai: The Campaign for Girls’ Education

While CRY’s work benefits all children, we have also focused on a campaign that addresses a persistent challenge: ensuring girls complete their education. The Poori Padhai, Desh Ki Bhalai campaign recognizes that when girls are educated, the nation prospers.

Currently, only 3 out of 5 girls in India are enrolled in higher secondary education. Societal norms, child marriage, and inadequate infrastructure often prevent girls from continuing school. CRY’s campaign works to change this reality. According to a McKinsey study, if all girls in India complete their education and join the workforce, the country could add $770 billion to its GDP by 2025.

Through awareness programs, community engagement, and direct support, CRY ensures that girls are encouraged, protected, and empowered to complete higher secondary education—because every girl who continues her education strengthens the nation and shapes a brighter future.

Also Read: Right to Education

Conclusion: CRY’s Commitment to Empowering Every Child

Every child deserves the right to learn, grow, and dream. CRY continues to protect and preserve the educational journeys of millions of children, ensuring they not only attend school but thrive in learning environments that nurture their potential.

This is a journey that requires all of us. By spreading awareness, supporting CRY’s initiatives, or contributing even a little, every individual can help children achieve poori padhai and secure a future filled with opportunity, hope, and promise.

Support children education through CRY India and help them stay active, develop essential life skills, and realize their full potential.

FAQs on Poori Padhai

What role does gender play in accessing education for children?

Gender can influence a child’s learning journey, particularly for girls. CRY’s Poori Padhai, Desh Ki Bhalai campaign supports safe, inclusive education for all children. Contributions help raise awareness, provide resources, and prevent early marriage, ensuring every girl and boy can continue learning and thrive through education for all.

What impact does education have on the future of children?

Education opens doors for children to explore their potential and build confident, independent lives. With support from poori padhai programs, children stay in school, bridge learning gaps, and complete their education. Even small monthly contributions create meaningful change, helping children realize the full benefits of inclusive education.

How does CRY's Poori Padhai campaign work to make education accessible?

The Poori Padhai campaign ensures children can enroll, stay, and succeed in school. CRY works with communities to bridge learning gaps, strengthen schools, and create supportive environments. Donations help children access remedial learning, digital support, and safe classrooms, ensuring education for all is not just a promise but a reality.

How can I contribute to CRY's efforts in providing education for children?

Even a small, consistent contribution can transform lives. By donating as little as ₹100 a month, you help children enroll in school, stay learning, and bridge educational gaps. Supporting CRY’s Poori Padhai, Desh Ki Bhalai campaign means protecting their education and investing in a stronger, more empowered India through education for all.