A people’s movement towards education equity
celebrate the leaders who go above and beyond their roles to build an equitable and inclusive education ecosystem.
At Shikshagraha, we believe that every step toward education equity deserves to be celebrated, especially the leaders—often unsung—who make this vision a reality.

The awards are more than recognition; it’s about amplifying stories of courage and inspiring action across the movement towards education equity.
The 2027 awards will be presented at InvokED, an annual global dialogue on education leadership where experts, educators, and changemakers come together to shape the movement towards education equity. The next InvokED is scheduled for February 26 & 27, 2027.
How can a collapsing school become a thriving community hub? What breaks the silence around menstrual health? How can leaders help students overcome TB stigma? Shikshagraha Awards 2026 nominees found extraordinary answers. This third volume of 'Small Steps to Build Great Schools' celebrates their journeys of transforming schools into living libraries, bridging healthcare and education and creating spaces where students learn with dignity and hope.
Batskhem Thabah
Shillong, Meghalaya
Mrs. Kumari Guddi
Kishanganj, Bihar
Nellore Subrahmanyam
Nellore, Andhra Pradesh
Xavier Chandra Kumar
Tamil Nadu
Ranjan Kumar
Bihar
Rajitha N
Karnataka
Muskan Ahirwar
Madhya Pradesh
Mrs. Mamta BhoiI
Balangir, Odisha
Mrs. Indu Batra
Gurugram, Haryana
Kabithui Rongmei
Khaangchu Foundation, Noney, Manipur
Urfana Amin Moharken
Srinagar, Kashmir
Savita Sahu
Raipur, Chattisgarh
Prasenjit Sarma
Hajo, Kamrup, Assam
Sheikh Altaf Hussain
Budgam, Kashmir
celebrate leaders who are championing education equity across the country. These awards honour individuals who go above and beyond their formal roles to ensure accessible and inclusive education becomes a reality.
Through their powerful stories, we aim to inspire others to join the movement for educational transformation.
The awards will be presented annually at InvokED, a global education leadership platform where experts, educators, and changemakers come together for meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
Exceptional education leaders create a ripple effect that transforms countless student lives. They refuse to give up. Their unwavering dedication inspires others to join the movement for education equity.

1
Champions continuous improvement in education.
2
Believes in the power of collective action to spark change.
3
Commits to making education equitable and inclusive.
To honour individuals whose
leadership contributes to
advancing education equity.
To inspire future leaders to
continue advocating for
inclusive education.
To strengthen Shikshagraha’s
mission of promoting education
for all, regardless of background
or circumstance.
The awards aim to reflect the diverse leadership driving the education equity movement by encompassing two broad categories:

Commitment to Continuous Improvement: Sustained efforts and consistent improvements over time.
Collaboration & Engagement: Effective partnership with diverse stakeholders beyond usual duties.
Innovation & Creativity: Unique approaches to tackle educational challenges effectively.
Inclusivity & Equity: Deliberate actions to support marginalised groups and ensure fair access.
Monetary Reward
(paid over two years)
A Trophy and Certificate of Excellence
Mentorship opportunities, visibility on Shikshagraha’s platforms, and speaking engagements

Nominations can be submitted by peers, colleagues, communities, or individuals. Self-nominations are not accepted.

For assistance with the nomination form or process, please reach out to us at
Email: shikshagrahaawards@shikshalokam.org