A five-day residential programme at the Life Transformation Centre (LTC) in Daund, near Pune, is offering students a unique classroom-free experience that aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The programme, introduced by MIT World Peace University for second-year students across disciplines, emphasizes experiential and holistic learning. Participants switch off their mobile phones, wake up at 5 am, and engage in daily activities such as yoga, farm work, and group tasks.
Programme Structure and Activities
The structured schedule includes fitness sessions, yoga, farm work, and team-building exercises. Students also participate in silence sessions and reflective practices. There are no exams or grades; learning is assessed through participation and feedback. The programme aims to build discipline, teamwork, and self-reliance, with students cleaning their spaces and managing daily chores.
Student Experiences
Students described the experience as challenging but transformative. Komal Sharma, a second-year business administration student, said, "Initially, staying away from my phone felt uncomfortable. But soon, I became more present. The early routine and physical work improved my focus and energy." Mayank Sathe noted that working on farms was a new experience. "We learnt how food is grown. It makes you value what you eat and the effort behind it," he said. Another participant, Shivam Raje, said the routine helped improve discipline and mental strength.
Educational Philosophy
Founder of LTC, Rahul Karad, said the initiative complements formal education. "NEP highlights the need for experiential learning. Students must understand life beyond textbooks. This environment helps build clarity, discipline, and a sense of purpose," he said. Shruti Nigudkar, associate dean at LTC, added that noticeable changes emerge within days. "Students gradually adapt, engage more deeply, and become more self-aware. That shift is the real learning," she said.
Campus and Impact
Spread across 150 acres, the LTC campus blends natural surroundings with activity-based learning spaces. The programme reflects NEP's broader vision of nurturing responsible, self-aware, and purpose-driven individuals. By moving beyond rote learning, participants gain real-world skills, value-based education, and personal development.
