Tattva Foundation

About Us

Championing ICT4D for Inclusive Development and Empowerment

Tattva Foundation is an innovation-driven, not-for-profit organization that leverages open-source technologies while working at the intersection of communities, governance, and technology. Our mission is to harness these elements to foster inclusive development and societal empowerment, leaving no one behind on the path to progress.

Founded in 2015, Tattva Foundation has emerged as a pioneering Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICT4D) organization and scale-up experts. We believe in the transformative power of technology and are dedicated to unlocking its potential as a catalyst for sustainable development, social justice, and equitable growth.

Our Approach

Empowering Communities through Technology: We empower marginalized communities by equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to uplift their socio-economic conditions. Through digital literacy programs, access to e-governance services, and community-led ICT projects, we enable individuals to become active participants in their own development.
Enhancing Governance with ICT Solutions: We recognize the critical role of effective governance and collaborate with government bodies (health, livelihoods, environment, education, etc.) to implement ICT solutions that promote transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement. Our expertise lies in developing e-governance platforms, data management systems, and digital channels for public service delivery, ensuring that governance serves the people it is meant to represent.
Driving Innovation for Development: Pioneering Open-Source Solutions: We champions open-source technologies, recognizing their potential to democratize access and drive sustainable impact. Our skilled team develops and deploys cutting-edge solutions tailored to the unique challenges of development, from mobile applications for healthcare and education to Internet of Things (IoT)-based solutions for sustainable agriculture and AI-driven tools for data analysis and decision-making.
Research and Advocacy: Informing Policy and Practice We conduct in-depth research to understand the impact of ICT on development and advocate for policies that promote digital inclusion and best practices in the field of ICT4D. Our research not only informs our own projects but also contributes to the global discourse on technology and development, ensuring that evidence-based approaches guide the way forward.
Building Partnerships for Amplified Impact: We believe in the power of collaboration. Tattva Foundation partners with a diverse range of stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, international development organizations, and the private sector, to amplify our impact and reach. Together, we create a powerful ecosystem that drives sustainable development and empowers individuals and communities across the globe.
Scale-Up Experts: From Innovation to Impact: Tattva is not just about innovation; we're about impact. We understand the importance of scaling up successful solutions to reach broader communities and create lasting change. Our expertise in scaling up ICT4D initiatives ensures that our work leaves a tangible footprint, transforming lives and building a more equitable future.

Mission, Vision And Values

Vision:

Tattva envisions a world where everyone has equitable access to affordable, high-quality healthcare, creativity-igniting education, and sustainable livelihoods within their communities leading to improved quality of life for all.

Mission:

Tattva Foundation works hand-in-hand with communities to build a fair and equal world for everyone. We use technology that's open-source, designed for people, works in and helps to reach even the remotest areas. Together, we create lasting solutions, bridge digital gaps, and empower organizations, communities, and individuals to make positive changes and grow in harmony.

Values:

Community-driven: Prioritizing the needs and voices of the communities we work with.
Human-centered design: Designing technology that meets the specific needs and aspirations of people.
Open-source: Promoting open access to technology and knowledge to empower communities.
Sustainability: Developing solutions that are environmentally and economically sustainable in the long term.
Innovation: Continuously seeking new and effective solutions to address community challenges.
Equity: Ensuring everyone has equal opportunity to access resources and thrive.
Empowerment: Enabling individuals and communities to take control of their lives and shape their future.

The Beginning

What is now the Chinhat upper primary school in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh was one of the only few secondary schools in Lucknow, pre independence. The school has a great historical significance as in this very school, in 1929, father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, addressed a huge pro independence gathering and also planted a Neem (Azadirachta indica) tree.

In April 2014, merely 100 students were enrolled in the school with only one teacher to teach. Moreover, the school building and adjoining playground were in a dilapidated state. We were adamant to work with the government schools and help the children in whatever ways possible using interactive and creative ways. Our search stopped with this school and we had found the place we wanted to begin our work from.

With our consistent efforts and the unprecedented (hugely encouraging) support of the incumbent state government, especially the Chief Ministers office, we were able to reinstate some of the lost glory back into the school. On 2nd October, 2014, and on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's 145th birthday the refurbished building was handed over by the District Magistrate Mr. Rajashekhar to the students, with a brand new science laboratory, hand-pump, and levelled playground.

This was also the genesis of Tattva Foundation and the Spread Creativity project. The school houses Tattva's first creativity lab, and is managed by local community mentors.