Welcome to Johar Field School, your gateway to immersive, hands-on learning in the heart of Central India. As the only field school in this region, we offer opportunities for students and early career researchers to dive deep into the worlds of anthropology, archaeology, ornithology, biodiversity conservation, cultural preservation, and more.

With a commitment to decolonizing knowledge, we aim to equip indigenous youth with the skills and tools needed to conduct their own research on indigenous knowledge by teaching research methods and fostering critical thinking to ensure their active participation in the knowledge-making process rather than being mere subjects of research or “data points”, We want them to document, analyze, and share their own cultural heritage, environmental practices, and community narratives from their perspective.

This approach aligns with Abhay Xaxa’s poem “I’m Not Your Data” (2011) which critiques the marginalization of Indigenous peoples in mainstream research. Like Xaxa, we believe Indigenous communities should be active agents in knowledge creation, owning their stories and traditions, and leading the preservation of their heritage.

In this way, we are not just promoting cultural conservation but also ensuring that the process of knowledge creation is participatory, inclusive, and deeply rooted in Indigenous worldviews.

What is a Field School?

A field school is an innovative educational program that transcends traditional classroom boundaries, plunging participants into real-world research and conservation efforts. At Johar Field School, we blend academic rigor with practical experience, ensuring our students gain invaluable skills while making meaningful contributions to local conservation projects.

What do we mean by Decolonizing Knowledge?

At Johar Field School, we strive to decolonize knowledge by recognizing and valuing the rich and diverse perspectives of local communities. Decolonizing knowledge means moving away from a one-size-fits-all, Western-centric view of science and conservation, and instead embracing and integrating indigenous knowledge systems and local wisdom. This approach not only enriches our understanding but also empowers the communities we work with, ensuring that their voices are heard and respected in the conservation dialogues.

why the word “Johar”?

The word ‘Johar’ is a traditional greeting and salutation used by various indigenous communities, particularly in the central and eastern regions of India. It embodies a sense of respect, warmth, and goodwill, symbolizing the mutual acknowledgment and honor between individuals. In the context of Johar Field School, the name signifies our commitment to respecting and valuing the knowledge, culture, and traditions of the communities we engage with. It reflects our approach to conservation and education, which is rooted in community collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and the integration of traditional wisdom with modern research methodologies.

Logo Description –

Our logo is a visual representation of the ideology of our field school. Designed by Pankaj, it features the word ‘Johar’ written in traditional Gondi alphabets, symbolizing the revival of the language and script by scholars from the Indigenous Gond community, including Pankaj. The human figure in the background is taken from a prehistoric painting recently discovered in Baihar, which Pankaj also worked on, creating digital copies for preservation. All these prehistoric artworks are now digitally preserved in our visual culture lab.

Our mission is simple yet profound: to “apply knowledge into practice” and create lasting, positive impacts on both our participants and the communities we serve.

Why Choose Johar Field School?

Johar Field School is not just a place of learning; it’s a community dedicated to make a difference. As the only field school in Central India, we offer unique and immersive experiences that combine rigorous academic training with real-world application. Our diverse programs and community-engaged approach ensure that you’ll leave with not only enhanced skills and knowledge but also a profound understanding of the natural and cultural richness of this region. Join us at Johar Field School and embark on a transformative journey where education meets action. Together, we can apply knowledge into practice and create sustainable solutions for a better future.