What we do

Prakriti Ki Pathshala, by UrbanSoil, is an innovative educational space designed to immerse students of all ages, from nursery to 8th standard, in the wonders of nature, environment, and eco-agriculture. It’s a place where the theoretical knowledge from Environmental Studies (EVS) textbooks is brought to life through interactive, three-dimensional experiences. This hands-on approach aims to enhance sensory development and motor skills while fostering a deep love and understanding of the natural world. Trained educators, known as PrakrutiShikshak, guide students through this journey, answering their curious questions and encouraging them to explore and interact with their environment. It’s a unique concept that blends education with ecological awareness, aiming to create a generation of environmentally conscious individuals.

UrbanSoil created the first PrakrutiShala in 2014 at a Bungalow residence (Approx 500 sqft) for a group of Preschool students in Kothrud. Later a larger PrakrutiShala (approx. 20000 sqft) was designed & developed in 2016 in Millennium National School, Karvenagar (Pune). These learning Gardens in school serve as learning in natural space for 1000s of students till date. A few more PrakrutiShala were developed in many esteemed schools of Pune (SSC, CBSE & ICSE boards) notably on Terraces, Ground Lawns & school surrounding spaces by UrbanSoil post pandemic period in 2022. We envision a PrakrutiShala in every learning space which is dedicated to children to let them connect & grow with nature.

PrakrutiShala is a visionary initiative that aims to integrate the experience of nature into the early learning process. In an age dominated by science, technology, and mathematics, PrakrutiShala offers a refreshing and necessary balance by immersing students in the natural world. The program’s goal is to nurture a ‘Greenthumb’—a keen interest and affinity for the environment—among young learners. By providing hands-on experiences with nature, PrakrutiShala lays a foundation for students to potentially pursue careers in fields like Agriculture, Environmental Science, Botany, Ecology, Biotechnology, and Sustainability. It’s about planting the seeds of environmental stewardship early on, so as students grow, they carry with them the values and knowledge to make informed decisions about their future and the future of our planet.