Hyderabad: The US Government and Sesame Workshop India Trust have introduced the ‘Learn Play Grow’ program in Telangana and Rajasthan, as part of the International Education Week. The purpose of the program is to improve early childhood education through interactive, play-based learning.

In Telangana, the program will be implemented in 644 Anganwadi centers in Bhupalapally district, engaging 14,000 to 16,000 children and their families. Additionally, digital content in Telugu and Hindi is expected to reach millions more across the country.

A collaboration between the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Sesame Workshop India Trust, the initiative uses Sesame Street characters like Chamki and Elmo to teach basic literacy, numeracy and hygiene. By combining education and entertainment, the program aims to make learning accessible and fun for young children.

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti said, “The launch of Learn Play Grow represents a step forward in our education partnership between the US and India. With this program, we bring education and health resources directly to children and families, making early learning engaging and accessible .By investing in initiatives like Learn Play Grow, we are not only supporting India’s young students, but also building brighter futures and stronger communities across India.Together, the US and India are advancing a shared vision of inclusive education high quality for everyone.”

The program is in line with India’s Nipun Bharat mission which focuses on basic literacy and numeracy, while ensuring inclusion and support for children with disabilities. It also promotes equality in education and provides resources in multiple languages ​​to support diverse learners.

Sonali Khan, Executive Trustee of Sesame Workshop India Trust, said, “We thank USAID for partnering with us for a crucial step in promoting basic literacy and numeracy along with critical WASH education for children in Telangana and Rajasthan. By integrating these essential elements, we work to ensure that children not only acquire important academic skills, but also develop lifelong hygiene practices.This initiative reflects our shared commitment to nurturing healthier, well-rounded children communities and create equitable learning opportunities for all children. Together with USAID, through the Learn Play Grow initiative, we are building a foundation where children can become smarter, stronger and kinder.”

The program builds on previous USAID-supported efforts to improve early education in India, such as early reading interventions with Room to Read, digital tools for learning with CARE USA, and equity-focused programs with Pratham India.