Special Prize 2009
Foundation 2009 Special Prize (€30,000)
In 2009, the Special Prize was awarded to the Barefoot College, founded in 1972 by Sanjit Bunker Roy in the state of Rajasthan, India. The Jury wished to reward the originality of the project and the team’s perseverance.
Taking advantage of informal know-how and local experience, the Barefoot College trains villagers, and in particular women, those combating illiteracy and those most disadvantaged, in practical matters relating to fields such as water, energy and health. This approach to the dissemination of know-how and capacity-building has spread to other states in India and to Afghanistan, as well as to a number of African countries.
Taking advantage of informal know-how and local experience, the Barefoot College trains villagers, and in particular women, those combating illiteracy and those most disadvantaged, in practical matters relating to fields such as water, energy and health. This approach to the dissemination of know-how and capacity-building has spread to other states in India and to Afghanistan, as well as to a number of African countries.
Watch the "Special Prize" winner’s project film
Visit the Barefoot College’s website.