Project Prakash allows us to merge basic scientific research with societal service. It directly addresses the pressing humanitarian need of providing treatment to curably blind children and, in the process, illuminates fundamental questions regarding brain plasticity and learning.

The vast majority of newly sighted children had been left out of the schooling system while they were blind. Tragically, even after they gain sight, they are unable to get admission into regular schools. The children are considered too old for entry into grade 1. Deprived of opportunities for mainstream educational advancement, the children either continue at schools for the blind, or worse, are confined to home. Girls are married off young, sometimes even as minors, effectively extinguishing any possibility for their self-actualization. Given the Prakash children’s near total lack of mainstream educational options, we have taken on the challenge of devising a specialized education program that can allow them to progress from their current state of scholastic preparation to an age-appropriate level of proficiency.

The Sinha Lab strives to make connections to the wider community through programs like UnrulyArt, offering scientific talks in partnership with community groups, offering summer research internships in collaboration with local STEM programs, and conducting science education and outreach activities with Cambridge and Boston-area schools. We welcome hearing from community groups who would like to explore collaboration with us.