Deshpandes honoured for pioneering rural education

Nagpur: Sachin and Bhagyashree Deshpande, directors of Abhyudaya Global Village School (AGVS), were honoured with the Nagpur Heroes 2025 award for their contributions to rural education in the district. Founded in 2010 by Dr Prakash Gandhi, Bhagyashree's father, under the non-profit Vikalpa, AGVS has grown from serving 28 students across three villages to empowering 345 students from 23 villages within a 20km radius, redefining education in rural India.
Sachin said, "The Nagpur Heroes 2025 award is more than just recognition — it is reaffirmation of the path we have chosen. It strengthens our belief that education, when rooted in purpose and driven by compassion, can create lasting change. This award acknowledges our efforts, but more importantly, it reminds us that our responsibility has only increased."
Bhagyashree added, "It inspires us to deepen our impact by establishing a teachers' training centre, creating opportunities for urban children to experience rural life, and hosting workshops on parenting and life skills."
The couple said that AGVS prioritizes experiential learning over rote memorization, integrating subjects like maths, science, and history into practical modules such as agriculture, sports, and business. Sprawled across a 5acre farm, it nurtures creativity, collaboration, and self-reliance while aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Since leaving corporate careers in 2014 to join AGVS full-time, the couple has introduced innovative methods like Interest-Based Learning (IBL), technology integration with smartboards and AI tools, and entrepreneurial training through farming ventures. This recognition celebrates their commitment to building a holistic, sustainable education ecosystem for rural Bharat.