The Akikaran Fellowship is NEAID’s flagship, two-year leadership development programme that places early-career professionals as full-time School Associates in some of Assam’s most under-resourced schools. Working closely with students, teachers, school leaders, government officials, parents, and communities, Fellows strengthen the entire school ecosystem from the ground up.

Supported by the programme team, Fellows collaborate with multiple stakeholders and gain hands-on experience through initiatives such as teacher trainings, learning circles, parent engagement activities, and School Management Committee meetings. This immersive experience helps them build a deep understanding of grassroots education challenges and co-create practical, context-specific solutions alongside the Project Management Unit-making access, equity, and better learning outcomes possible for children.

Beyond school-level impact, the Fellowship focuses on shaping future leaders in education. It builds essential skills, values, and mindsets while nurturing a cadre of socially conscious professionals committed to long-term change. Throughout the Fellowship, participants benefit from a wide range of opportunities for training, mentorship, networking, and continuous professional development.