S R Thomas Antony is a seasoned social development professional with over a decade of experience in policy research, advocacy, and implementation focused on critical areas such as school education, urban livelihoods, and governance reform. Known for his strategic thinking, grassroots engagement, and policy innovation, Thomas has made significant contributions to India’s social development sector through his work with prominent organizations and social movements.
Currently serving as Senior Manager – Education Policy Reforms at the Centre for Civil Society (CCS), he leads the think tank’s work on education reform, focusing on policy solutions that aim to improve the quality, equity, and efficiency of school education in India. His work at CCS involves stakeholder engagement, research and policy analysis, coalition-building, and strategic advocacy to influence education policy at both state and national levels.
Previous Roles
Chief Executive Officer (CEO), National Independent Schools Alliance (NISA)
As CEO of NISA, a National Independent Schools Alliance representing budget private schools across India, Thomas played a pivotal role in developing, strengthening, and scaling the alliance. His leadership facilitated unified policy advocacy for low-cost private schools, working closely with stakeholders to protect the interests of under-resourced private education providers while upholding standards of accountability and access. Right to Education Division, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)
Program Manager – RTE Division
Thomas served in the Right to Education Division at NCPCR, where he was directly involved in monitoring the implementation of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009. He oversaw the evaluation of RTE compliance in 60 government schools in East Delhi, and played an instrumental role in the development of Social Audit Tools for monitoring RTE implementation through School Management Committees and Civil Society Organizations.
Over the years, Thomas has also worked with and contributed to several renowned organizations and grassroots movements, including: Joint Operation for Social Help (JOSH); Aajeevika Bureau; Kotra Adivasi Sangathan; Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS); Right to Information (RTI) Movement and Evidence – Human Rights Organization.
His work with these organizations has focused on community mobilization, policy advocacy, capacity building, and human rights-based approaches to development.
