Education ministry organises Auroville tour

The Ministry of Education is organising a week-long educational and cultural tour to Auroville under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) initiative. The initiative coincides with the ongoing celebrations of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sri Aurobindo, scheduled to take place from January 29 to February 2.

Collaborating with the Auroville Foundation, the tour aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Sri Aurobindo’s philosophy of integral education and its practical application in Auroville, a globally significant experimental township. Ninety-four students from eight Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) will be part of this enriching experience.

Participants from esteemed institutions such as Rajiv Gandhi University, Arunachal Pradesh; IIIT Sonepat; Sikkim University, Gangtok; IIT Mandi; Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur; Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women; and Pondicherry University will engage in immersive activities in Auroville and locations associated with Sri Aurobindo.

The tour is designed for participatory and immersive learning experiences over five days. Students will explore Auroville units focusing on sustainable products, Sadhana Forest emphasizing reforestation and food security, botanical gardens, and various art and culture centers. The itinerary includes an in-depth look at Auroville’s architecture, planning, education system, waste management, and a visit to Matrimandir, the spiritual core of Auroville.

Students will also have the opportunity to visit the Pondicherry Sri Aurobindo Ashram, engaging in physical education activities.