After-School Support for 1,000 Learners

Children’s Parliament – Every Child’s Voice Matters

At Prime Educational and Social Trust, we believe that every child has the right to be heard, respected, and involved in decisions that affect their lives. Unfortunately, many children from marginalized communities rarely have the opportunity to express their ideas, share their concerns, or participate in meaningful discussions about issues that impact their daily lives. Social barriers, lack of confidence, and limited exposure often prevent them from speaking openly.

To address this challenge, Prime Trust has introduced the Children’s Parliament Program, an initiative designed to empower children between the ages of 9 and 14 who come from remedial schools and families associated with Self-Help Groups. This program creates a safe and supportive platform where children can freely express their thoughts, discuss issues that affect them, and learn the importance of democratic participation.

Through the Children’s Parliament, children gather regularly in an organized and structured setting where they elect representatives among themselves and take part in discussions, debates, and decision-making activities. They learn how to listen to others, respect different opinions, and work together to solve problems. By participating in this process, children gain valuable life skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and critical thinking.

One of the most important aspects of the Children’s Parliament is that it creates a safe space for children to speak without fear. Many of these children come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds where their voices are often unheard. In the Parliament sessions, however, they are encouraged to speak openly about topics such as education, health, hygiene, safety, and the challenges they face at home or in school. When children feel heard and valued, their confidence grows, and they begin to realize that their opinions matter.

The program also introduces children to the fundamental principles of democracy. They learn about roles and responsibilities, voting processes, representation, and collective decision-making. By practicing these democratic values at a young age, children develop a deeper understanding of participation, accountability, and respect for others. These experiences help shape them into responsible and engaged citizens in the future.

In addition to building knowledge and awareness, the Children’s Parliament helps children develop confidence and self-esteem. Many participants who were once shy or hesitant gradually become active speakers and leaders within their groups. They learn how to articulate their ideas clearly, raise concerns constructively, and support their peers.

Prime Trust believes that empowering children today will create stronger communities tomorrow. When children are given the opportunity to participate, lead, and share their perspectives, they become agents of positive change within their families and communities.

With the support of donors and partners, the Children’s Parliament Program continues to nurture young voices and inspire children to believe in themselves and their potential.

Visit of Board Members from LACIM – 16 February 2026

On 16th February 2026, we had the privilege of welcoming the Board Members of LACIM to our project locations in Puducherry and Tamil Nadu. The visiting delegation included Mr. Christian Beziaud, Mrs. Estelle Teyssier, Mr. Robert Beziaud, and Mr. Denish Kumar, Pondicherry and Tamil Nadu representative. Their presence brought immense encouragement to our team and, most importantly, to the women beneficiaries whose lives have been positively impacted through this partnership.

The visit served as an opportunity to strengthen relationships, review progress, and witness firsthand the transformation created through the microloan and livelihood initiatives supported by LACIM. The delegation interacted directly with women entrepreneurs, listened to their journeys, and observed how small financial support, combined with guidance and trust, has enabled them to build sustainable livelihoods.

During the interactions, several women shared inspiring stories of resilience. Many beneficiaries explained how access to microloans helped them start or expand small businesses such as tailoring, petty shops, food preparation, and agricultural activities. These enterprises are not only generating income but also restoring dignity and confidence among women who previously had limited opportunities. The visitors appreciated the transparency of the program and the commitment shown by the beneficiaries in utilizing the support responsibly.

A key highlight of the visit was the community discussion session, where beneficiaries openly expressed how financial independence has strengthened their decision-making roles within their families. Women spoke about improved access to education for their children, better healthcare, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to household expenses. These outcomes demonstrate that the project is not merely about financial assistance—it is about empowerment, self-reliance, and long-term social change.

The LACIM Board Members also met with the project team to discuss future strategies, sustainability, and opportunities for expanding the program to reach more underserved women. The dialogue focused on strengthening monitoring systems, improving skill development components, and enhancing market linkages for beneficiaries’ products and services. Their valuable insights and continued encouragement reaffirmed the importance of international collaboration in achieving grassroots impact.

When partnerships are built on trust, transformation naturally follows. This visit reaffirmed our shared commitment to empowering vulnerable women and strengthening communities through sustainable livelihoods. Together, we are not just funding businesses — we are empowering women, nurturing families, and uplifting entire communities.

We express our heartfelt gratitude to LACIM for their continued trust, solidarity, and support. The success stories witnessed during this visit belong not only to the beneficiaries but also to every donor and partner who believes in creating opportunities for those in need.

We look forward to continuing this meaningful journey together, bringing hope and sustainable change to many more lives in the future.

Links:

• Visit of Board Members from LACIM