Yogamalar was deserted by her husband in 2007. She found it difficult to make ends meet and pay for her son’s education. She joined an OfERR self-help group and received a loan to buy 10 chickens and a shelter for them. Her flock has grown to 55 — and now she is not only earning a living, but able to save. Yogamalar has repaid her loan and is financing her son’s schooling. Her new standard of living has boosted Yogamar’s confidence. She is no longer shunned by her community and now participates in local social activities.
Sonam, 8, lives with her parents and 5 siblings in Kaali Basti, Uttam Nagar. Her father installs playground swings, her brother is a drum beater and her mother works as a maidservant. Sonam had never been to school, but joined the Katha Community School, after overcoming her parents’ initial reluctance.
Katha’s way of teaching and learning through fun activities based on stories made studies interesting for Sonam. The friendly, supportive teachers helped her adjust to the new school environment. Along with basic subjects, she also learned about health and hygiene which led to encouraging changes in her life and habits.
Sonam now loves reading and can write the names of all her family members and friends. She understands numbers and calculations, and aintains a daily record of expenditure for her family. Sonam aspires to be a teacher one day.
“I had never been to school, but always wanted to study in one. I love going to my school with Katha…When I grow up, I want to be a teacher and teach other girls like me”.
