There was a time when Arvind* would sit in class, tired and distracted, with his books open in front of him but his mind far away. Mathematics felt especially difficult. As his Class 10 Board examinations came closer, the possibility of failure became very real.
For many students, one difficult year can quietly close the door to future opportunities. For Arvind, Class 10 became that critical point — a moment when he needed someone to notice, step in, and help him believe that he could still succeed.
Arvind came to the children’s home in 2022, after previously staying in another government care facility. His mother had been unwell for several years and was unable to care for him. To ensure his safety and wellbeing, his maternal grandparents placed him in institutional care. Although his grandmother visited him occasionally, and his mother came whenever her health allowed, family contact remained limited.
During his earlier years at the children’s home, Arvind managed his studies reasonably well. But when he reached Class 9, things began to change. He gradually lost interest in education, struggled to concentrate, and became less consistent with his studies. By the time he entered Class 10, Mathematics had become a major challenge, and there was a serious concern that he might not pass his Board examinations.
Recognising this, Sahaara’s Mathematics teacher decided to give him additional support. She began working with him through regular one-to-one coaching sessions, patiently helping him rebuild his understanding of basic concepts. She called him for extra classes, gave him individual attention, and encouraged him to practise consistently.
The support was not only academic. Arvind also needed encouragement to rebuild his study habits and stay committed to his education. Instead of giving up on him, his teacher continued to motivate him, reminding him that he was capable of learning and improving.
Slowly, Arvind began to respond.
He started attending extra classes more willingly. He practised more regularly. As his understanding improved, his confidence also began to return. The subject that once felt overwhelming slowly became something he could face with effort and support.
That steady encouragement made a difference.
Arvind successfully passed his Class 10 Board examination. For a student who had once seemed at risk of failing, this was an important turning point. Passing the examination restored his confidence and opened the door to new opportunities for his future.
Reflecting on his journey, Arvind says, “I was able to pass my Board examinations because of Sahaara’s help.”
Today, Arvind continues to stay at the children’s home while awaiting admission to an Industrial Training Institute, where he hopes to pursue vocational training. In the future, he dreams of becoming a businessman.
*Name changed to protect identity