In a small village in Uttar Pradesh, an inclusive school is changing the lives of hundreds of disadvantaged children. Premjyoti, ‘Lights of Love’, is more than just a place of learning: it is a space of tolerance, solidarity and hope, supported for nearly 30 years by the generosity of donors and the commitment of partners.

In the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, the Premjyoti – Lights of Love school has been working since 1996 to provide inclusive education to disadvantaged children. Located in the village of Chiraigaon, it now welcomes around 410 children, including 60 with disabilities, and provides them with quality education from primary school through to secondary and higher education.

A school for everyone

Premjyoti is characterised by its openness and inclusive spirit. Children with disabilities, who are often excluded from the school system, find an opportunity to learn and grow here. Learning in an inclusive environment encourages teaching methods based on respect for differences and solidarity.

The school is also a place of coexistence: all religions and cultures are respected and celebrated. Hindu, Christian and Muslim festivals are organised, promoting tolerance and intercultural dialogue. Pupils also receive civic education that prepares them to become engaged citizens.

An initiative driven by solidarity

In 1998, two Belgians visited the Premjyoti school and founded the group Amitiés européennes de Premjyoti (European Friends of Premjyoti), which provides financial support to the school.

The needs remain significant: the school's annual operating costs amount to approximately €80,000, covering teachers' salaries, building maintenance, school supplies, the library and the computer room.

A new step: integration into Louvain Coopération

From 2025 onwards, Louvain Coopération will take over from Premjyoti's European Friends. In practical terms, our NGO will centralise donations collected for the school in order to guarantee the continuity of the project and enable everyone to continue supporting it with confidence. This transition will provide a more solid framework for the project, while remaining faithful to its founding values: tolerance, justice, respect for the weakest and quality of education.

How can you help?

There are two ways for those who wish to support the school:

1. Make a one-off donation to Louvain Coopération:
   IBAN: BE28 7323 3319 1920
   Reference: Premjyoti society
   (Any donation over £40 is eligible for a tax receipt.)
2. Join the ‘Premjyoti European Friends’ group, participate in its activities and make a commitment to regular payments according to your means by contacting premjyoti.eur@gmail.com.