Bunker Roy

Full Name and Common Aliases

Bunker Roy is the full name of Prem Chand Roy, commonly referred to as Bunker.

Birth and Death Dates

Born on May 12, 1942, in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. Unfortunately, there's no publicly available information about his passing date.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Indian social entrepreneur, innovator, environmentalist, and founder of the Barefoot College.

Early Life and Background

Growing up in a small village in Rajasthan, India, Bunker Roy was exposed to the harsh realities of rural poverty and lack of access to basic amenities. This upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of empathy for marginalized communities. He studied at St Stephen's College in Delhi and later earned his degree in Economics from the University of Cambridge.

Major Accomplishments

Bunker Roy's groundbreaking work at Barefoot College is revolutionizing rural development through self-sufficient, community-driven initiatives. Some key accomplishments include:

Establishing the first Barefoot College in 1972 with a mission to provide sustainable solutions for rural villages
Developing innovative technologies and training programs that empower local communities to take charge of their own development
Implementing solar-powered water purification systems, renewable energy projects, and eco-friendly architecture

Notable Works or Actions

Bunker Roy's tireless efforts have led to numerous notable works and actions, including:

Collaborating with governments and international organizations to implement sustainable solutions for rural areas
Developing training programs that focus on practical skills, rather than theoretical knowledge
Advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and promoting social justice

Impact and Legacy

Bunker Roy's work has had a profound impact on rural development worldwide. His innovative approach to community-led initiatives has inspired countless organizations and individuals to adopt similar methods.

Barefoot College has replicated its model in over 50 countries, benefiting millions of people
The organization has also spun off several successful spin-offs, including the Barefoot College Foundation and the Solar Education Program

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Bunker Roy's inspiring story is a testament to the power of innovation and community-led development. His dedication to creating sustainable solutions for rural areas has earned him numerous awards and accolades.

He was awarded the Right Livelihood Award in 1980, the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1983, and the Gandhi Peace Prize in 2002
His work has been recognized globally, with coverage in major media outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, and BBC