ST Foundation Expands Digital Inclusion Efforts Across India Through Education and Volunteer Engagement.
The ST Foundation, a non-profit corporate arm of STMicroelectronics, continues to drive its mission of bridging the global digital divide by empowering people through digital education.
Since its creation in 2001, the Foundation has focused on promoting digital inclusion among underserved and vulnerable communities, ensuring that access to technology translates into real opportunities in education, employment, and personal growth.
Empowering Communities Through “Digital Unify”
At the heart of the Foundation’s work is Digital Unify (DU), a global education initiative designed to build essential digital skills through structured training programs.
Implemented via partnerships with governments, non-profits, educational institutions, and ST volunteers, the initiative emphasizes sustainable, community-driven impact. Programs range from introductory computer literacy and coding to specialized courses for seniors, children, and visually impaired learners.
The Foundation’s operational model revolves around direct implementation rather than fundraising. By focusing on capacity building, locally-relevant solutions, and volunteer-driven training, the initiative ensures long-term empowerment for communities across the world.
Expanding Reach in Asia and India
Globally, since its operational start in 2003, the ST Foundation has reached more than 1.3 million individuals across 30+ countries. In Asia, it manages 96 Digital Unify Labs, empowering around 26,000 learners each year at less than $10 per student.
Over 88 active ST volunteers across the region contribute to teaching, material localization, and program development.
In India, the Foundation’s presence has steadily grown since 2003–2004. Formally registered as a Section 8 non-profit in 2018, ST Foundation India has reached more than 180,000 trainees through 56 Digital Unify Labs in cooperation with 18 NGO partners across 11 states.
Backed by STMicroelectronics through budgets, equipment donations, and employee volunteers, the Foundation’s India operations have become a benchmark for sustainable community impact.
Transformative Initiatives Making a Difference
Some of ST Foundation India’s key initiatives include:
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Tablet for Kids on Wheel (T4K on Wheel): In collaboration with the Navjyoti India Foundation, this project delivers tablet-based learning to children in Delhi’s marginalized communities. Since 2022, over 2,500 children have received hands-on digital education.
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Digital Literacy for Incarcerated Individuals: In partnership with India Vision Foundation, digital learning programs help inmates in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi gain computer literacy, boosting rehabilitation prospects. More than 3,300 participants have completed training since inception.
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Inclusive Digital Skills for the Visually Impaired: Through the ICB4VI program, trainers and visually impaired learners receive accessible technology instruction. A pilot batch of 17 visually impaired girls recently completed training with promising results.
Recognition and CSR Excellence
The Foundation’s efforts have earned industry-wide recognition. ST Foundation India’s Digital Unify program was honored as the “CSR Project of the Year” at the 7th Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI) CSR Conclave & Awards 2025. The recognition underlines the success of its community-based, volunteer-led model in driving real digital empowerment.
Leadership Comments
Commenting on the Foundation’s ongoing initiatives, Chhavi Bajpai, STMicroelectronics IT Head ST Foundation India Director said:
“At STMicroelectronics, we believe true innovation lies in inclusion. Through the ST Foundation, our people and partners work hand in hand to make digital education accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance. The success of Digital Unify in India reflects our shared vision of using technology to build a smarter, more equitable future.”
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