In Pamohi, Assam, students at Akshar Forum pay tuition with plastic bags and bottles. Founded in 2016, the 100-student school tackles local plastic pollution while teaching recycling skills. Assam struggles with waste management: much of Guwahati’s 500 tons of daily waste is untreated or burned, releasing toxins.
Co-founders Parmita Sarma and Mazin Mukhtar designed the school to address both environmental and social challenges. Students deposit plastic weekly and turn it into Eco Bricks, learning about sustainability and reducing waste. Akshar also trains students from other schools in Assam and even Ladakh.
The school combines plastic collection with a point-based system: students earn rewards for teaching peers, vocational training, or helping on campus. Training includes solar installation, carpentry, tailoring, and healthcare, reducing drop-out rates and fostering skills. Students are now dreaming of careers in medicine.
Aligned with India’s National Education Policy, Akshar integrates learning, work, and sustainability. Despite funding challenges, its impact is seen in individual success stories, showing how education and environmental awareness can fight poverty and pollution.
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/india-school-fees-plastic-bags/
