PRIA International Academy (PIA), established in 2005, offers educational opportunities to university students and development professionals to enhance their knowledge and skills. The philosophy of PIA is premised on lifelong learning and education is critical to personal and professional development. It, therefore, aims to develop perspectives, knowledge and skills of university students and development professionals by offering a variety of courses. PIA as the educational wing of PRIA (Participatory Research in Asia) draws on practical lessons from the action learning projects PRIA implemented over the last four decades. The educational courses offered by PIA are the perfect blend of PRIA's practice-based experience and academic rigour.
PIA courses are designed and developed based on sound theory and practical insights. These courses have been developed by experienced development practitioners, accomplished academicians, and professional adult learning facilitators. We offer courses with various durations – from 2 to 10 weeks – which are offered online, in-person, or in a hybrid model.
Today, the PIA has over 2000 alumni from 35 countries and has linkages with several universities in India and Canada for course development, course teaching and internships.
PIA also conducts customised learning programmes for staff from civil society organisations across India and the Asian region. In the past year, 10 learners from Save the Children, Bangladesh were enrolled in the International Perspectives on Participatory Research (IPPR) course. International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), based in New Delhi nominated 14 of its employees for the Participatory Training Methodology (PTM) certificate course.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the privilege of enrolling in the course. This programme has opened my eyes to various possibilities in life.
Participatory Approaches for Social Inclusion course was undoubtedly beneficial for my research work, providing a deep understanding of theoretical aspects and the applied side of participation.
PRIA course was comprehensive, eclectic and integrative in nature thus having immense relevance for public private and civil society leadership engaged in promoting just, democratic and accountable planning and governance systems and structures in their countries.
I loved the passion and commitment shown by all the PRIA staff and the projects we visited was an amazing and humbling experience. This [exposure] visit reignited my enthusiasm and belief that change is possible. Thank you PRIA.
I have been formally operational for more than 2 years now but was not aware of mandate of statutory audit. I learned this through the workshop and would get it done in FY 2022-23. It was a great learning & networking platform where I could get connected with so many people working in nearby districts on similar areas. I am grateful that such programmes with low-cost investment and best resources are available for smaller organisations like Avdhrit
We have previously taken OD workshops from different agencies, but this particular workshop was very elaborative and focused and help us analyse our gaps and mutual discussions made it possible to look for local solutions
I had no idea about the importance of governing board and its role in the operation of an organisation. I learned it during a workshop and would form governing board for my organisation as soon as I go back
The visit [organized by PRIA] has helped me to learn the different ways of working with the communities, be more patient particularly when faced with resistance at work and see the strength in others.
[The exposure visit organized by PRIA] reinforced my values of working with the communities. Listening, loving the people and action should always be community led.
