Get 10 000 children out of labour and into school

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!

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This is the journey of Kavita, a 15-year-old girl from Pokhari Baleshwar Village, whose life has been transformed through the efforts of the National Initiative for Social Development (NISD), our partner organisation. Kavita has blossomed from a timid and introverted individual into a confident leader.

Before the support of this project, Kavita was shy and had difficulty interacting with others. She showed little interest in school activities and was hesitant to ask for help. Recognising her potential, NISD established the "Dhadshi Girls Club" and appointed Kavita as its leader. This club aimed to empower girls and promote their personal growth in their local community.

When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, NISD adapted by creating a WhatsApp group for the girls to stay connected. Kavita took on the responsibility of sharing information and gradually became more involved in the club's activities. She learned essential skills and gained confidence through NISD's programs on topics like menstrual hygiene, adolescent health and leadership development.

Today, Kavita conducts regular meetings for her Girls Club, showcasing her leadership abilities. She assertively presents information, shares ideas and delivers speeches during school programs. Her parents have noticed a positive change in her attitude. Kavita's teachers are amazed by her transformation, as she actively participates in various activities and has become one of the school's top students!

Kavita's journey from a shy and reserved girl to a community leader demonstrates the power of education and women in leadership roles. Thanks to the Dhadshi Girls Club, Kavita has overcome her fear and developed invaluable life skills. Her parents now support her aspirations for higher education, confident in her ability to adapt and thrive.  Your support means that girls like Kavita can realise their true potential outside of societal limitations!

Thank you!