DLRC, the DriveChange Learning and Resource Centre, stands as a beacon of progressive education nestled in the serene surroundings of Sus Gaon, Pune. Situated amidst the verdant embrace of a mango farm, its reclaimed wooden structures harmonize seamlessly with nature’s bounty. Here, lush student-created gardens coexist with a tree grove boasting majestic Anjeer, Neem, and Passion Fruit trees. Reused bottle plant pots, vibrant murals, and a bustling design lab add to the tapestry of this unique learning ecosystem, framed by rolling Western Ghat hills.
My journey with DLRC began as a student, where for two transformative years, I explored and grew within its nurturing embrace. As an alumnus, facilitator, and integral member of the community, DLRC has been my home—a place where visionary founders, Ajay Dalmia, Mona Dalmia, and Pavan Iyengar, have sowed the seeds of a radical educational paradigm.
From its humble beginnings in 2015, DLRC has burgeoned into a vibrant space, eschewing traditional hierarchies for a collaborative model. Here, facilitators—guides on the journey of co-learning—nurture a culture of curiosity and resilience. Mistakes are not frowned upon but embraced as opportunities for growth, supported by a network of parents, students, and co-founders united in their passion for holistic education.
Ajay, Mona, and Pavan infuse DLRC’s ethos with their distinct visions. Ajay champions self-sustainability and reverence for labor, integrating these values into the curriculum. Mona advocates for ecological literacy, fostering a deep connection with our environment. Pavan, believing in the proverbial village, fosters outreach and a spirit of scientific inquiry.
In just a year, DLRC outgrew its initial confines, blossoming into a hub of learning for a diverse cohort of students. The transition to a mango farm in 2017 marked a pivotal moment, symbolizing the community’s commitment to growth and sustainability. Today, with over 300 students and a 1:12 facilitator to student ratio, DLRC remains inclusive, welcoming learners from varied backgrounds and abilities.
Central to DLRC’s mission is the concept of “Campus as a Learning Activity” (CALA), leveraging every facet of its environment to facilitate learning. From “Farm to Table” initiatives to composting toilets and aquaponics systems, sustainability is woven into the fabric of daily life. Kishore Ji and his team, artisans from Jodhpur, embody this spirit, infusing their craftsmanship into every structure.
At DLRC, learning transcends the classroom, permeating everyday life. Integrated learning approaches, environmental literacy programs, and a celebration of cultural diversity underscore the commitment to holistic education. Here, students, parents, and facilitators form a dynamic learning triangle, fostering an environment of equity and democracy.
DLRC is more than a school; it is a testament to the transformative power of education rooted in equity, justice, and diversity. As we carry the lessons learned beyond its gates, we become not just learners but active citizens shaping a brighter future for all.
