Introduction

Azad Shiksha Kendra (ASK) – Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh is established as a Trust in 2004, and operates as a non-political and non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the well-being and progress of underprivileged communities, particularly in the most disadvantaged and minority-dominant areas of the state. Inspired by the principles of Mahatma Gandhi and guided by secular and democratic values, ASK has gathered a team of committed professionals including doctors, lawyers, and social workers. Together, they work tirelessly to address the emerging developmental challenges in these focal regions especially focusing on right based approach including sexual and reproductive health and rights. In addition, a group of devoted volunteers with a strong sense of social responsibility supports the organization's endeavors.

As an organization ASK is essentially concerned with the protection of women and availing their rights, promotion of education and health care, rural livelihood enhancement and right to information in the intervention sites.

The programmes are largely focused on Muslim, Dalit and Musahar communities in Azamgarh, Allahabad, Muzaffarnar, Barely,Firozabad Maruth , districts besides, of course, Jaunpur

Also, ASK works in collaboration with UP Collective and has its presence in 7 other districts, Sitapur, Balrampur, Chandauli, Gonda, Shrawasti, Bahraich and Jaunpur. In 2019, ASK expanded its work with support of Yeh ek soch foundation in Sitapur and Shrawasti districts and led the health based interventions.

Right since the inception, the organization has undertaken large number of projects/programmes which enabled lakhs of people from partner communities to have better access to sexual reproductive health, nutrition, literacy and education. The main thrust has been on women empowerment and child development.  Strategically, we maintain coordination and  rapport with government agencioes/departments, PRIs, local NGOs/CBOs and women led organizations at various levels