Student Exposure Visit: Experiential Learning with Smart Village Movement

Roshan at Salesforce Trailblazer Lab

At Smart Village Movement (SVM), we believe in fostering real-world learning experiences for young minds passionate about technology, sustainability, and rural development. As part of our youth exposure program, Roshan Gurjar, an Honorary Scholar at Westminster School, London, joined SVM for an immersive experiential learning visit, gaining firsthand insights into innovative healthcare, education, and environmental solutions in rural India.

Roshan at Salesforce Trailblazer Lab

Healthcare Access

During his visit, Roshan explored Gramin Clinics in War-War village, where he witnessed how rural healthcare is being revolutionized with telemedicine and drone-based medicine delivery—the first of its kind in Asia. These clinics, staffed by trained healthcare providers, provide accessible medical care to underserved communities. “The dedication of these frontline workers in improving lives with simple yet effective healthcare interventions is truly inspiring,” Roshan shared. With 21 such clinics operational SVM’s telehealth model is ensuring rural populations receive timely and efficient medical support.

At Apollo Telehealth Clinic

He also visited the Apollo Telehealth Clinic, a crucial component of the region’s healthcare infrastructure. Here, he observed instant diagnostic services, video consultations with doctors, and on-site prescription dispensing—eliminating long and costly trips to distant hospitals. With over 20 patients served daily, Roshan was impressed by how Technology is bridging the healthcare gap in rural India.

At Salesforce Trailblazer Lab Library

Self-Learning & Youth Empowerment 

Beyond healthcare, Roshan delved into the innovative education model at Sohrarim Lab Community Centre (Sohrarim Nook). Designed to foster self-learning and digital literacy, this center provides youth with hands-on access to 3D printing, computing, sewing, and carpentry skills. He interacted with young learners building career-ready skills and met an aspiring carpenter who transformed raw materials into finely crafted furniture. “The drive and creativity here are remarkable. These students are shaping their own futures with the resources provided,” he noted.

By equipping youth with practical skills and entrepreneurial mindsets SVM’s education initiatives ensure long-term, sustainable development.

Addressing Environmental Challenges
Roshan also actively engaged in learning about SVM’s Umiam Lake Cleaning Project, tackling one of Meghalaya’s pressing environmental challenges—plastic pollution and waste accumulation. Umiam Lake, a vital water body, suffers from rising pollution, particularly during monsoons. He observed the solar-powered robotic lake cleaners, which remove up to 500kg of waste, along with floating bamboo barriers and decentralized waste incinerators that protect local fishing communities and extend the dam’s lifespan.

With India producing over 9.3 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, Roshan saw firsthand how SVM’s sustainable waste management efforts align with national ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals. “Seeing technology and local solutions work together to tackle such a massive issue was eye-opening,” he reflected.

Looking Ahead

Roshan’s journey with Smart Village Movement has deepened his understanding of technology-driven rural transformation. He continues to explore solutions to enhance SVM’s impact, particularly in mitigating challenges during the monsoon season, such as improving drone deliveries in adverse weather conditions. Roshan will continue to collaborate with SVM, particularly on the agriculture project, and has volunteered to help raise funds to support its success.

At Smart Village Movement, we are committed to drive innovative solutions for sustainable development.  Stay tuned for more inspiring stories of impact!

Connect with SVM for Exposure Visits

Interested in experiencing rural transformation firsthand? SVM welcomes students, educators, and young professionals to join our exposure visits. Here’s how to get started:

• Email: Reach out to Vivek Shah, India CEO, at vivek@smartvillagemovement.org, or Anna Fitter, Executive Director (CSR & Corporate Partnerships), at anna@smartvillagemovement.org.
• Phone: Call +91 99674 04040 (Vivek) or +1 949-285-9690 (Anna).
• What to Expect: Hands-on learning in healthcare, education, and sustainability projects, plus collaboration with rural innovators.
  Join us to see technology and community action in motion!