What does it mean to create a school that not only embraces cultural heritage but also reimagines how learning spaces foster connection and growth? How do we design educational systems that prioritize both freedom and belonging?


Today’s guest is Suganya Sankaran, a dedicated educator and core team member of the Vishwa Bharati Vidyodaya Trust, an organization working in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. Suganya is deeply involved in shaping alternative education models for Adivasi (indigenous) communities, with a focus on fostering pride in their identity, creating culturally responsive curriculums, and designing innovative learning spaces.


In this episode, we explore the unique approach of Vidyodaya School, located in the biodiverse Nilgiri Hills. Suganya shares how the school’s open, interconnected architectural design mirrors its teaching philosophy—one that emphasizes freedom, non-hierarchical learning, and the integration of Adivasi cultural practices. Through stories of collaboration with local communities, we learn how the school nurtures a sense of pride and identity in Adivasi children while addressing systemic challenges like marginalization and access to basic resources.

Suganya also delves into the complexities of transitioning from alternative education to mainstream systems and how Vidyodaya is expanding its reach to support students through these shifts. This conversation invites us to rethink the role of education, not just as a tool for academic achievement but as a means to preserve cultural heritage, foster resilience, and build inclusive communities.