Keep Girls in School & End Child Marriage in Pune

Priya is a 17-year-old girl from Mumbai who is currently pursuing her 12th standard at school. She lives with her parents and younger sister in a rented home, where the monthly rent of 4000 rupees adds to the incredible financial strain on her family.

With Priya's mother as the sole earner, working as a housemaid, the family faces significant challenges. Priya's father is unable to work due to complications from a cataract surgery, which has left him with limited vision.

Priya's younger sister struggles with low haemoglobin levels, requiring frequent hospital visits that her family simply cannot afford. As a result, Priya often found it difficult to concentrate on her studies, feeling overwhelmed by the pressures at home and the need to support her family, especially in domestic tasks, which is expected of girls in their community.

Things began to change when a community support officer from Karuna's project introduced Priya to a girls education group. This initiative offered her the opportunity to enrol in various activities designed to support young girls like her. With encouragement from the team and her peers, Priya decided to join.

Through Karuna's support, Priya received training that helped her build confidence and resilience. She was also granted educational sponsorship of 4000 rupees, which allowed her to access essential study materials, including notebooks, stationery, and textbooks. This transformed Priya's outlook and alleviated the financial burden on her family, enabling her to focus more on her education.

With the pressure lifted, Priya's academic performance improved!

She actively engaged in her studies and began participating in extracurricular activities, particularly enjoying sports. The support from Karuna has not only helped her academically but has also encouraged her to explore her interests outside the classroom, finding joy and freedom, outside of simply surviving.

Looking ahead, Priya aspires to complete her graduation and post-graduation in finance, with the goal of becoming an accountant. With renewed determination and a clearer path forward, she is focused on achieving her dreams.

Priya's journey is just one example that illustrates the positive impact that targeted support can have on young individuals, empowering them to overcome limiting beliefs, financial challenges and pursue their aspirations.

Thanks to your support, Priya has gained the tools and confidence needed to puruse a hopeful future of choice.