Although education is compulsory until 14 years of age, about 40% of children do not participate any education program in India. Many parents do not send their children to school because of high collateral fees, such as uniform, shoes, and other expenses, depending on the regulation of each school. Also, many parents take into account the loss of income, which would occur if their children went to school instead of working.

According to HUMANITAS survey the major reasons of children not going to school are:

HUMANITAS helps to supply basic education by sponsoring general school fees for children.

Children to be sponsored are selected by HUMANITAS local units on the basis of recommendation by teachers and neighborhood committees. They come from families in poverty and their situation is often compounded by other factors (orphaned children, serious illness). Eligibility is determined through a rigorous screening process involving teacher, family and child interviews conducted by HUMANITAS local staff.

Target groups:
Pupils between 6 and 16 years of age

HUMANITAS implements special education program to children and young adults during monsoon season when agricultural and other productive activities are reduced, so people have time and "have no excuse" not to attend school programs.

HUMANITAS Monsoon School Program is specially developed to ensure that children and young adults, who did not attend regular primary school programs, acquire basic knowledge of reading and writing and counting in their local language, as well as basic health related issues such as hygiene, diseases, birth control etc.

At the end of the program participants will be able to read, write and solve basic mathematical problems in their own language. Theyalso receive applicable knowledge about health care issues, birth control and about sustainable local income-generating opportunities.

Target groups:
Women, children and young adults

Education of young adults is very important because basic life skills will help improve family income. Parents' educational levels and attitudes towards education often dictate whether or not a child will attend school. In closed collaboration with local organizations HUMANITAS organizes seminars to raise awareness about the importance of providing formal education to children.
These seminars are organized with the participation of teachers and representatives of local institutions.

Target groups: Young parents

EducationHUMANITAS “School enrolment Initiative for girls” is a non-residential project for girls of all ages and academic levels. The girls are chosen among those who live in slum areas and in socially disadvantaged situation. In 2005 8 girls has been selected.

EducationHUMANITAS sponsors their education expenses as long as they remain full time students, and to as high an academic level as they desire and are capable of achieving. This enables the girls to pursue and complete their education, as well as to obtain good occupations and become fully self-reliant.

Target groups: Girls