Stop Scrolling, Start Learning: Smart Students Use Summer Vacations Wisely – Here Are Their Free Learning Secrets

Summer holidays don’t have to mean endless scolding for ignoring textbooks. Instead, why not use this time to explore new skills and knowledge through free online learning platforms? With technology transforming education, students now have access to high-quality courses and resources—all from the comfort of their homes.

While debates continue about smartphone bans in schools, it’s essential to recognize the internet’s dual nature. Yes, privacy risks exist, but so do endless learning opportunities. To help you navigate the digital world wisely, here are some of the best free ed-tech platforms available this summer:

1. SWAYAM Prabha – 24/7 Educational TV Channels

What’s in it? 80+ DTH channels covering school, college, and competitive exam topics with fresh content daily.
How to access?

• TV: Tune in via DD Free Dish (Channel No. 28-34, 951-960).
• Online: Watch live or archived videos on https://swayamprabha.gov.in.

2. National Digital Library of India (NDLI) – A Giant Digital Bookstore

What’s in it? Millions of textbooks, research papers, videos, and audiobooks across disciplines.
How to access?

• Visit https://ndl.iitkgp.ac.in and sign up for free.
• Use filters to find content by language, level (school/college), or format (PDF/video).

3. eGyanKosh – IGNOU’s Treasure Trove

What’s in it? Study materials from India’s largest open university (IGNOU), including rare courses.
How to access?

• Go to https://egyankosh.ac.in.
• No login needed—download PDFs directly.

4. SWAYAM – Free University-Level Courses

What’s in it? Credit-backed courses from top Indian institutes (IITs, IIMs, etc.) in STEM, arts, and more.
How to access?

• Enroll at https://swayam.gov.in.
• Complete assignments to earn certificates (small fee for certification).

5. freeCodeCamp – Code Like a Pro

What’s in it? Hands-on coding tutorials (HTML, Python, JavaScript) with real-world projects.
How to access?

• Start learning at https://freecodecamp.org.
• Certificates are free upon course completion.

6. Khan Academy – Bite-Sized Learning

What’s in it? Animated video lessons (math, science, finance) for K-12 and beyond.
How to access?

• Visit https://khanacademy.org or download the app.
• No signup required—just pick a topic and start!

7. ePathshala – NCERT’s Official Hub

What’s in it? All NCERT textbooks (1st–12th grade), plus audiobooks and teacher resources.
How to access?

• Website: https://epathshala.nic.in.
• Mobile app: Available on Android/iOS (offline access).

8. DIKSHA – India’s ‘One Nation, One Digital Platform’

What’s in it? Interactive school lessons in 36 Indian languages, aligned with state boards.
How to access?

• Visit https://diksha.gov.in or download the app.
• Scan QR codes from textbooks for linked videos.

Bonus: Higher Education & Research

• e-PG Pathshala (https://epgp.inflibnet.ac.in) – Master’s/PhD materials.
• ShodhGanga (https://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in) – 400,000+ Indian PhD theses.
• NPTEL (https://nptel.ac.in) – IIT/IISc engineering courses.

Why This Summer?

• No cost, no pressure – Learn at your pace.
• Stand out – Add certificates to your resume.
• Beat boredom – Replace screen time with skill time.

Pro Tip: Bookmark 2–3 platforms that match your goals, and dedicate just 30 minutes daily. By August, you’ll be surprised at how much you’ve gained!