Third Pole Education Base

The Third Pole E-Base, setup in Ladakh, is the 3rd such E-Base in the world. Setup in a region which has experienced grave consequences of climate change, like the Cloud Burst in 2010 and receding glaciers which are cutting away water sources, the E-Base is meant to be a model of sustainability while also being a portal for the kids from the region to connect to the outside world.

The Third Pole E-Base is constructed using a sustainable building technique called ‘Rammed Earth’. It is completely powered by solar panels, and is oriented in a way to optimally utilize the sun for both electricity and heating.

The E-Base is located in the Mahabodhi complex in Leh, right next to the Mahabodhi School. It houses a digital library of documentaries and interactive learning tools, in addition to a traditional library. It is capable of connecting to other institutions around the world over a video conferencing tool. In addition to this, there are multiple tablets available, which the students can use to research in parallel, while learning a new concept. The idea is to make learning a more engaging and enriching experience, while empowering the students of this region with tools which are now commonplace in other urban communities. The E base enables students to go beyond their curriculum and allows them to develop their critical thinking.