A group of Pestalozzi school children in India

Nurture their dreams

Confident youth inspire collective growth and positive change in their communities

India - Unlock the potential of marginalised children

In India we are dedicated to providing comprehensive, child-centred education to some of the brightest children from the poorest backgrounds. Our programmes focus on academic excellence and equip students with essential vocational and social skills, helping them break the cycle of poverty and become empathetic leaders, entrepreneurs, changemakers.

Why we are here

In rural India, 30% of children drop out before they finish primary school, and more than 50% of girls do not complete secondary education. Deep-rooted gender inequality and poverty keep girls in particular from accessing the education they need to build better futures. The impact? A cycle of missed opportunities and untapped potential.

A group of girls at Pestalozzi Campus Zambia

The core challenge

For many young people in rural India, education is out of reach. Poverty, early marriage, and household responsibilities keep girls at home, while cultural barriers restrict their access to meaningful education. When girls are denied education, entire communities miss out on the potential for innovation, leadership, and social mobility.

Why supporting girls is key
Children in a reading class outside in India

Comprehensive support for future leaders

Through our partner Cambrian Hall School we offer residential scholarships to the brightest children from the most disadvantaged communities. Students in this programme receive holistic education, leadership training, and vocational skills, ensuring they are academically prepared to help themselves and become leaders who can uplift their communities.

Learn more
A group of children graduating from Pestalozzi Zambia and cheering

A worldwide network of leaders and changemakers

Our support does not stop with the completion of our programmes. We not only cultivate a network of our worldwide alumni but also keep supporting them. Various training options and mentorships shall help them succeed as young self-reliant adults, as entrepreneurs and agents of positive change.

More on our Alumni Programme
Usha

Pestalozzi International writes success stories

"Had it not been for Pestalozzi International, I would have stayed in my small village school. Today, I am pursuing a degree in fashion technology and helping other girls like me dream big and pursue higher education."

Usha graduated from our Future Leaders Programme and now works towards a career in the fashion industry.

Read Usha’s story

Interview with Indian Director, Cheme Dolma Palden

7x
more likely

to graduate from high school than the averages in their areas, Indian Future Leaders students achieve remarkable success in education.

96%
of Future Leaders students

go on to complete a university degree

53%
of alumni

are in careers of public service, like teachers, doctors, civil servants, or with NGOs

Children learning with books on their tables at Pestalozzi Zambia

Help us reach more children

Your support enables marginalized children to become leaders in their communities.