Aarif*, an 11-year-old boy, faced many struggles in his early years. His family originally lived in Kolkata, but his father took his mother, Alia*, to Mumbai and forced her into the sex trade in the Ghatkopar red-light area. Aarif lived with his parents and stepmother, while his three brothers remained in Kolkata with their grandparents. His father did not work, making the family’s situation unstable, and his mother’s work made it difficult for her to take care of him properly.
Aarif did not know Hindi and was extremely shy, avoiding interaction with others. He had never attended school and, at the age of 10, he still did not know how to read or write. No school was willing to admit him because of his age and language barrier, leaving him without access to education.
In late 2023, Sahaara conducted a survey in the Ghatkopar red-light area to identify children who were out of school. The team met Aarif’s mother and learned about his situation. Understanding the urgency, the staff took steps to get him into school. Initially, schools were reluctant to admit him due to his age and lack of Hindi skills. However, the Sahaara team persistently followed up with school authorities and provided assurances that Aarif would receive additional academic support. After months of effort, Aarif was finally enrolled in school.
To help him adjust and succeed in school, Sahaara provided remedial classes to improve his Hindi and academic skills. Since his mother’s work schedule made it difficult for her to prepare meals regularly, Sahaara also provided daily meals through their feeding program, ensuring that he received proper nutrition. Through regular interaction, Aarif also received social and emotional support, helping him build confidence and engage with other students.
Over time, Aarif began improving in reading, writing, and speaking Hindi. His confidence grew, and he actively participated in class discussions. His teachers noticed his progress, and he was given the role of a monitor at the Sahaara education center. His mother, who once had little hope for his future, is now actively involved in his education. She ensures he attends school daily and participates in remedial classes. Aarif now dreams of becoming an officer when he grows up and is motivated to study hard.
“I am very thankful to my Sahaara teacher, who enrolled me in school. Before this, I had never attended school, and no one helped me,” Aarif says. His mother adds, “The quality of teaching and care provided by Sahaara is very good. Because of them, my son was admitted to school, and his educational journey has begun towards a bright future.”
*Names changed to protect identities.
