Building a Better India Through Education

Envisioned and conceived by Late Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, the 100 Libraries Project is a transformative educational initiative driven by the belief that access to knowledge has the power to change lives. This visionary endeavour aims to establish a network of 100 well-equipped libraries across government and private schools located in resource-constrained communities of the Cuttack and Bhubaneswar region.

Rooted in compassion and purpose, the project reflects a deep commitment to enriching the learning ecosystem and nurturing a culture of reading, curiosity, and lifelong learning among children who need it the most.

The Vision Behind the Initiative

Dr. Sahoo firmly believed that libraries are the cornerstone of intellectual growth. They ignite curiosity, broaden perspectives, and encourage young minds to explore beyond textbooks. By providing access to diverse, age-appropriate, and engaging reading material, the project strives to foster:

• A lifelong love for reading
• Critical and creative thinking
• Academic excellence and intellectual independence
• A deeper understanding of the world

The initiative also sensitises SAIoneers, instilling empathy and social responsibility as they actively contribute to meaningful community engagement.

Vision

To ignite the flame of reading among underprivileged children and instill empathy in SAIoneers.

Mission

Inspired by his philosophy of “Building a Better India through Education”, Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo envisioned the installation of 100 libraries in underprivileged schools across Odisha. He believed that cultivating reading habits from an early age is fundamental to shaping informed, confident, and compassionate citizens.

Mission 100 Library

Following an extensive survey of library facilities across Odisha, SAI International School identified a critical gap in access to basic literacy resources in underprivileged schools. Recognising that quality education begins with access to knowledge, the 100 Libraries Project aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4, ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Late Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo not only envisioned this initiative but also empowered and trained SAIoneers to actively participate in building, sustaining, and expanding these libraries until the mission is accomplished.

Community Impact

The operational libraries have significantly contributed to the academic, personal, and vocational growth of economically disadvantaged students. Beyond academics, they have strengthened students’ confidence and aspirations, paving the way for a more promising future.

This initiative stands as a powerful example of resource mobilisation and student leadership, channeling youthful energy towards meaningful societal transformation.

Key outcomes include:

• Increased student engagement and improved academic performance
• Higher attendance and enhanced teaching effectiveness
• Growth in technical, vocational, and entrepreneurial skills among adolescents and young adults
• Better preparedness for gainful employment and dignified livelihoods

Each library functions as a self-sustaining learning hub, motivating students and educators to champion inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education, advancing the realisation of SDG 4.

Transforming Learning Ecosystems

The presence of these libraries has sparked a profound transformation across school communities. Engaging storytelling sessions, supported by a rich collection of pictorial and age-appropriate books, have expanded the imaginative and creative horizons of marginalised students.

Equally significant is the shift in mindset among teachers and learners alike, fostering a collective commitment to enhancing the quality and depth of learning experiences.

The 100 Libraries Project is more than an initiative, it is a legacy of vision, compassion, and action. Through books, belief, and collective effort, it continues to illuminate young minds and reshape futures, one library at a time.