“Can a remote school in the Himalayas, tucked away from modern conveniences, truly connect with the world?”
This question lingered as we received an email from Manjushree Vidyapith, a humble yet transformative school in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. Their challenge? Stable internet connectivity—a hurdle that restricted their operations, including maintaining contact with international donors who sustain much of their work.
Manjushree Vidyapith, a sanctuary for orphans, destitute, and physically challenged children, stands as a beacon of hope in one of India’s most remote regions. For over 25 years, the school has nurtured its students’ spiritual, intellectual, physical, and social growth. Despite limited resources, they’ve empowered children to become contributing members of society. Yet, their efforts were stymied by the absence of reliable internet, a necessity in today’s interconnected world.
Tawang, a remote district perched at over 10,000 feet, faces significant educational challenges. According to reports, Arunachal Pradesh has a literacy rate of 65.38%, well below the national average of 77.7%. Factors like difficult terrain, lack of infrastructure, and limited resources mean that many children in Tawang and similar regions have restricted access to quality education. The situation worsens when digital learning—now an integral part of modern education—remains out of reach for most schools.
The Journey to Connection
Our journey began in November 2020, traveling over 2,500 kilometers from Maharashtra to Tawang. The roads twisted through towering cliffs and icy passes, every turn emphasizing the isolation of this region. Upon reaching Manjushree, the scale of the challenge became clear.
The school, surrounded by the rugged Himalayas, had no mobile network, let alone internet connectivity. Even conducting our feasibility survey—a task requiring basic connectivity—proved difficult. We set up temporary shop in a small café in the town center, the only place with a faint internet signal.
Hours of work followed, testing, recalculating, and reimagining how to bring stable connectivity to the school. The task was daunting. In regions like these, conventional solutions like satellite internet are fraught with issues—frequent cloud cover disrupts signals, speeds are inconsistent, and maintenance is nearly impossible without local support teams.
Our plan was ambitious but grounded: a wireless network leveraging a fiber-optic-connected tower nearby. But wireless technology in such terrain comes with its own hurdles—it requires a clear line of sight between connection points. Identifying these points amidst snow-covered peaks and dense forests was like finding needles in a haystack.
Yet, after meticulous planning and countless cups of tea, we identified a potential link: a mountain peak offering a direct line of sight to the school. It was a small victory on a journey filled with uncertainty.
Making the Impossible Possible
Five months later, we returned with equipment in hand and hope in our hearts. Setting up the infrastructure tested every ounce of our determination. Hiking through steep trails, battling freezing temperatures, and troubleshooting technical challenges in real time—each step was a reminder of the sheer remoteness of Manjushree.
But finally, the connection came to life. The first test email sent from the school was a milestone that reverberated far beyond the walls of Manjushree Vidyapith.
The Transformative Impact
Connectivity has redefined what is possible for the Manjushree community:
- Revolutionizing Education
Students now have access to online educational tools, virtual classrooms, and resources that were previously beyond their reach. Concepts like coding, virtual experiments, and global collaborations have entered their curriculum, opening doors to opportunities that seemed unimaginable just a year ago. - Strengthening Donor Relations
With stable internet, the school can communicate seamlessly with its international donors, ensuring continued financial and operational support. The transparency and ease of communication have strengthened these relationships, securing the school’s future. - Empowering Teachers and Administration
Teachers now utilize digital teaching aids, enriching the learning experience. Administrative tasks, from student records to resource management, have become more efficient, allowing the staff to focus more on their mission. - Building Global Connections
The internet has brought the world to Manjushree. Students watch documentaries, participate in global conversations, and dream bigger dreams. It’s not just connectivity; it’s a lifeline to hope and inspiration.
Beyond Technology: A Lesson in Humanity
This project wasn’t just about installing equipment; it was about bridging gaps—technological, geographical, and societal. Manjushree taught us that the challenges of remote connectivity are not just logistical but deeply human.
The school’s spirit of compassion and resilience left an indelible mark on us. Their dedication to nurturing children from the most disadvantaged backgrounds, despite limited resources, exemplifies the kind of determination that moves mountains—sometimes literally.
In turn, we were reminded of the profound responsibility we carry in our work. Internet connectivity is not a luxury; it is a fundamental enabler of equality and opportunity.
A Brighter Future
Today, Manjushree Vidyapith stands as a shining example of what’s possible when technology meets purpose. The school’s journey from isolation to integration is a testament to the power of collective effort and the transformative potential of connectivity.
As we reflect on this project, we’re not just proud of the technical success but deeply grateful for the human connections it fostered. The internet at Manjushree isn’t just a tool; it’s a bridge to a brighter, more inclusive future for every child who calls this school home.
The story of Manjushree Vidyapith is a reminder: No place is too remote, and no challenge is insurmountable when driven by the belief that every child deserves a chance to dream, connect, and thrive.