We currently sponsor 26 students in Jodhpur through the Jodhpur Empowerment Centre. This year, May 2011, however, we will be sending 10 children of women in our Self Help Groups in Setrawa to school. For 8 of these girls, this will be their first form of education, even though some are 12 years old already.

In order to provide for their education, each child requires approximately about 200 - 250 US$ a year to cover uniforms, books, school supplies, tuition, and transportation to and from school. All 21 participants of the literacy program are enrolled in a private school located close to their homes and attend for 4 hours every day. The participants, who are enrolled in grades Kindergarten to the 7th class, are educated in a broad range of topics including English, Maths, Science, General Knowledge, Social Studies (Geography, History and Civics), Sanskrit if the child is in the 6th standard and above and Computer class from 1st standards.

Education is so crucial to these children’s futures because it serves as the foundation for their economic independence. With a female literacy of 58 % rate, many of Jodhpur and Setrawa’s girls and young women are lacking in basic education. Without basic literary skills, these women will find it difficult to support themselves in the long term, access health education, and improve their quality of life. What’s more, for the sons and daughters of these women, education is the only means of ensuring that they can care for their families and pursue their own goals. These women and children need our support and aid. Please help and support our Sambhali Project girls and their families to attend schools.

We now have 36 participants in school for the year 2011. In order to support them throughout their education, we are hoping for sponsors in the upcoming years.