From Child Labour to College: Support Her Future

Priyanka, 14, is a tribal girl who lives in Mahalwadi village. She is in 8th grade and studies at a local high school. She lives with her parents and elder brother, who are daily-wage farmers and labourers. They have a small piece of barren land and often work as sugar cane cutters or on other people’s fields to make ends meet.

 Priyanka had to walk 4 kilometres each way to reach her school, which took her more than an hour and a half. She was exhausted by the time she got home and had no energy to do her homework or study. Her academic performance suffered, and her teachers were not happy with her.

She often asked her father to buy her a bicycle, but he could not afford it. She slowly lost interest in school and education, as it was too difficult.

Priyanka heard of the Girls Together Group in Mahalwadi village, where she learned about her rights, and the importance of education. There, she connected with their social worker who visited her home and saw how hard it was for Priyanka to go to school every day. She decided to help Priyanka by providing her with a bicycle.

She now goes to school regularly and easily. She saves time and energy, which she uses for her studies. Her performance has improved, and her teachers are pleased with her. She also participates in many activities and programmes organised by NISD at the village and block levels. Priyanka is more confident and determined to complete her 10th grade and pursue higher education.

She and her parents are grateful to Karuna Trust and NISD for giving Priyanka a bicycle and a chance to fulfil her potential.

Thank you!

Links:

• Link to our website to find out more and see our projects!