Breaking the Barriers of Inequalities in Education: The Influence of Mass Media Among Adivasis in Wayanad, Kerala

This article investigates the role of mass media in the education of Adivasi communities in Wayanad district, Kerala, India. This study, part of ethnographic research, collected data from three Adivasi communities through in-depth interviews, observations and key informant interviews. The article focuses on how mass media technologies have influenced the awareness and educational attainment of the communities. The study proves that the worldview of the Adivasi communities in Wayanad has widened with the introduction of radio, television, mobile phones and the internet. Mass media has facilitated transformative changes in Anganwadi and post-Anganwadi education, including improved parent–student communication, overcoming language barriers, and increasing informed participation in decision-making. A positive correlation was observed between the diffusion of mass media technologies and educational performance. These technologies also contribute to building social networks and, consequently, employment opportunities. The study further notes that the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the diffusion of mass media technologies in Adivasi hamlets.