Researching Reality 2024
Beyond Classrooms: Policy and Practice

About Researching Reality Training Programme

The Researching Reality Training Programme, developed by the Centre for Civil Society (CCS) in New Delhi, stands as a premier research initiative with a legacy of over two decades. This program is designed to equip students with essential skills in policy research and analysis, making it one of the most respected training platforms for budding researchers across India. Guided by a commitment to fostering innovative and impactful research, the programme has successfully attracted participants from a diverse range of academic and professional backgrounds, each contributing their unique perspectives and problem-solving abilities.

At the heart of the programme is a collaborative approach that brings together scholars, practitioners, and experts for in-depth brainstorming sessions. Through these discussions, participants work on real-world policy issues, generating novel insights and actionable solutions aimed at addressing contemporary societal challenges. The Researching Reality Training Programme covers a broad spectrum of critical topics, including education, livelihoods, and other areas central to India's socio-economic fabric, with a particular emphasis on diversity-related issues.

Theme for 2024 | Policy Challenges in School Education

The 2024 edition of the programme focused on the theme of Policy Challenges in School Education, highlighting the issues of Equity, Governance, and Innovation. This theme was chosen in response to India’s urgent need to address stagnating learning outcomes in the school education system. While student enrollment has been on the rise, these numerical gains have not consistently translated into meaningful improvements in learning achievements. This stagnation poses significant risks, not only to the emotional and economic well-being of young learners but also to the country’s long-term development trajectory.

Given these challenges, the 2024 programme engaged participants in examining critical barriers within India’s education sector. Participants analyzed factors affecting equitable access, effective governance, and the need for innovative approaches to education delivery. With an eye towards creating lasting change, they were encouraged to develop solutions that could drive both immediate and long-term improvements in educational outcomes



About the Centre for Civil Society (CCS)

The Centre for Civil Society (CCS) is a leading public policy think tank based in New Delhi, dedicated to advancing social change through research, outreach, and advocacy. Known for its pioneering work in the field of education, livelihood, and governance, CCS brings together policymakers, scholars, and practitioners to collaborate on building effective and sustainable policies that promote individual freedom, accountability, and inclusive development.

Supported by Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF)

The Researching Reality Training Programme is made possible through the support of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF), an organization that shares CCS's vision of a free and democratic society. FNF’s support has enabled CCS to bring this unique learning experience to life, equipping a new generation of researchers with the skills and insights they need to make a positive impact in society.