About our chapter

A student organization built around long-term partnership.

Project RISHI at UC Irvine brings students together to research, fund, and support community-guided initiatives to help in social health improvement in rural India.

Who we are

Rural India Social & Health Improvement

Project RISHI is a student-run nonprofit network founded on the belief that sustainable development begins with community knowledge.

University chapters work with local community members and social enterprises to identify priorities, study proven approaches, and support implementation through field research and on-campus initiatives.

At UCI, our members contribute different areas of study and experience to a shared process. We aim to prepare carefully, communicate responsibly, and build relationships that extend across academic years.

As a developing chapter, we are establishing committee research, member training, fundraising systems, and plans for future travel and partnership work.

Our committees

Five areas of focus

Committee work gives members a place to develop subject knowledge while contributing to the chapter’s broader goals. Proposed initiatives remain subject to research, community input, available resources, and qualified partnerships.

01

Clinical Health

The Clinical Health Committee examines barriers to preventive and primary care in rural communities. Members research community health priorities, health-literacy strategies, screening models, and partnerships with qualified medical professionals. The committee’s goal is to support initiatives that pair access to appropriate care with clear, sustainable health education.

02

Reproductive Health

The Reproductive Health Committee focuses on respectful, evidence-informed education surrounding menstrual and reproductive health. Its work may include researching culturally appropriate curricula, improving awareness of available resources, and developing partnerships that support dignity, informed decision-making, and long-term access.

03

Technology Literacy

The Technology Literacy Committee explores how access to digital tools and practical skills can be used to bridge the education equity gap. Members develop learning materials on foundational computer use, online safety, digital communication, and pathways to continued learning while accounting for local infrastructure and access.

04

Youth Education

The Youth Education Committee works to expand learning opportunities for children and adolescents. Areas of focus may include tutoring, mentorship, extracurricular enrichment, educational resources, and support for students preparing for future academic or professional goals. Programs are designed with educators and community partners.

05

Sustainability

The Sustainability Committee studies environmental and infrastructure priorities that affect daily life and long-term resilience. Its work may include water and sanitation, waste reduction, environmental education, agriculture, and resource conservation. Members prioritize solutions that are practical, locally maintainable, and measurable.

Student leadership

Meet the founders

Project RISHI at UCI was established by three undergraduate students committed to building a thoughtful, sustainable partnership internationally.

Yashita Pediredla

Yashita Pediredla

Co-Founder

Anisha Rayapudi

Anisha Rayapudi

Co-Founder

Sanika Kolur

Sanika Kolur

Co-Founder

Our chapter in action

What we’ve done so far

Project RISHI members supporting an NMDP stem-cell donor awareness event
NMDP stem-cell donor awareness
Guest speakers at Project RISHI's public, clinical, and global health panel
Public, clinical, and global health panel
Project RISHI member delivering reproductive health packs to Families Forward
Reproductive health packs
Volunteers working with soil and plants at a nursery
Shadetree volunteering