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By Laeek Ahemad Siddiqui

Literacy and multilingual education are key to unlocking a child's potential, especially in today’s interconnected world. The ability to understand and express oneself in multiple languages not only enhances cognitive skills but also opens doors to new opportunities. Recognizing this,  has been making a significant difference by helping underprivileged children in India learn in their native language, while also equipping them with the skills to communicate effectively in English.

a post-doctoral fellow at Stanford University and co-founder of Kzarvani Foundation, emphasizes the deep connection between literacy and multilingual education. She explains that the understanding of concepts in one’s first language is the cornerstone of effective learning. “When children grasp ideas in the language they are most comfortable with, they are not only able to understand the material better but also develop critical thinking skills,” Dr. Gan notes. This foundational understanding is vital, as it allows children to build on their knowledge and eventually translate those ideas into another language. 

Kzarvani Foundation has designed its educational programs with this in mind to ensure that children in remote tribal villages in India receive a solid foundation in their native language, which is crucial for their cognitive and emotional development. At the same time, the foundation provides these children with the opportunity to learn English, a skill that can greatly expand their future possibilities. Understanding concepts in one’s first language fosters a deeper comprehension of the material and encourages children to ask questions, express their thoughts, and engage in meaningful discussions. This level of engagement is essential for learning, as it promotes an active rather than passive approach to education. Once children have a strong grasp of concepts in their native language, they are better prepared to translate and communicate these ideas in English. 

takes this approach a step further by offering online spoken English classes. The goal of these classes is to equip children with the skills necessary to express and communicate their thoughts to a broader audience. The Foundation's approach ensures that education is both inclusive and empowering. By employing local tribal teachers who instruct in the children’s first language— mostly local Indigenous languages—  honors and preserves cultural heritage. 

Simultaneously, the online English classes open new avenues for communication and learning, helping children express their ideas on a global scale. , who conducts these classes, has seen firsthand the impact of this dual approach. “Many of these children belong to the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where I also teach children of tiger victims—children whose fathers or family members were tragically dragged into the forest and killed by tigers,” Dr. Gan shares. This poignant reality underscores the challenges faced by these children and highlights the importance of the work being done by the Foundation.

In essence, understanding concepts in one's first language creates a strong educational foundation. Translating those thoughts into another language, particularly a widely spoken one like English, enhances the ability to communicate and connect with the world.  is deeply committed to fostering this dual approach, ensuring that children in remote tribal villages remain rooted in their cultural identity while being equipped to engage with the global community. Through its innovative programs, the Foundation is not only preserving cultural heritage, but also preparing the next generation to thrive in an increasingly globalized world.