By Claudia Kruger | Fundraiser
Suraj is a 15-year-old boy from the Gosavi community, where most families earn their living through crab fishing. In this community, children often leave school early to help their parents with income-generating work. As a result, dropout rates are high, and the few earnings children make are rarely invested wisely, sometimes leading to unhealthy habits and addictions.
In Suraj’s neighbourhood, most children his age no longer attend school, largely because their parents themselves never had the chance to study. Suraj’s own family of seven – his parents, three younger sisters, and a brother – all work in crab fishing. Yet, unlike most of his peers, he has developed a deep interest in learning. He often avoids joining the fishing trips or makes sure to return home in time for his classes.
At one point, his parents considered withdrawing him from school, but Suraj was determined to continue. Although now in the 10th grade, Suraj had long struggled to read Marathi and found mathematics especially difficult. These challenges made him shy and uncertain in class, afraid to ask questions or seek help. By the 9th grade, he was close to dropping out altogether because he still couldn’t read.
His dedication led him to attend the Savitri Centre, where he began to rebuild his learning foundation. With the patient support of his teacher, who used creative tools such as charts, flashcards, and puzzles, Suraj began to rediscover the joy of learning. Gradually, he learned to read and write, and as his confidence grew, so did his ability to tackle other subjects.
“I couldn’t read or write before, and I wanted to leave school,” Suraj shares. “Now I can study every subject, and I hope to finish school and become a police officer.”
Beyond academics, Suraj also participates in sports and school activities. Thanks to the support of Nirman, both he and his parents have renewed hope for his educational future. Suraj’s journey shows that, with encouragement and opportunity, even children facing social and economic challenges can achieve their dreams.
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