She wanted to read, but the words felt difficult. English had become one of her biggest struggles. Reading, understanding, and keeping up with her classmates were not easy, and this affected her confidence in school.

Priya comes from a low-income family that faced serious financial challenges, especially during and after the lockdown period. Due to financial pressure, the family had moved back to their native place, which disrupted her education. For nearly three to four years, her schooling was irregular, and she had limited academic support at home.

When the family returned to the city, Priya was re-enrolled in school. But adjusting to the new environment was difficult. She struggled academically, especially in English, where her reading and comprehension were weak. Though she wanted to learn, she found it hard to keep pace with the classroom.

Sahaara staff first noticed Priya’s learning difficulty during a reading storybook activity at the centre. As she tried to read and understand the text, her gaps in English became clear. The teachers recognised that she needed structured support, regular practice, and patient guidance to rebuild her academic foundation.

Through Project Pratham, Priya was enrolled in structured learning support sessions focused on improving her English. She began with phonics, alphabet sounds, and basic word formation. Gradually, she moved towards reading simple words, short passages, and forming sentences. Storybook reading sessions helped her improve comprehension and slowly build confidence.

The teachers also used peer learning, guided practice, and continuous monitoring to support her progress. Learning with classmates helped Priya feel more comfortable, while mentoring encouraged her to remain consistent. Over time, her performance improved from low scores in the first quarter to better results in the following quarters.

Slowly, Priya began to change.

She became more interested in learning and more willing to participate. English no longer felt completely out of reach. With regular support, she began building confidence in her reading and writing skills. Each small improvement helped her believe that she could learn and do better in school.

Priya says, “I was not able to read properly, and English was very difficult for me. Now I feel more confident and can understand better.”

Her mother shares, “Earlier she was weak in studies, especially in English, but now we can see improvement. We are happy with her progress.”

Today, Priya is growing as a learner. With continued support, she is expected to strengthen her academic foundation, perform better in school, and build the skills she needs for the future. She hopes to get a good job one day and support her family.

Priya’s story reminds us that when a child’s education is disrupted, the gaps can feel overwhelming. But with patient teaching, regular practice, and encouragement, learning can begin again — and confidence can slowly return.

*Name changed to protect identity

The post Learning to Read with Confidence appeared first on Sahaara Charitable Society.

She could recognise only a few letters and simple words in Hindi and English. Larger words felt difficult. Writing sentences was hard. Understanding passages took effort. Each time she struggled, she felt embarrassed, and slowly, the fear of making mistakes began to silence her.

Pooja had been facing these academic difficulties since entering the secondary section in Grade 5. Her family situation made the challenge even harder. She lives with her mother, grandmother, and younger brother. Her father passed away seven years ago, leaving the family with emotional and financial difficulties. Her mother works as a housekeeper and is the only earning member of the family. With one modest income supporting the household, it was difficult to manage daily needs and educational expenses.

Yet Pooja remained cheerful, active, and eager to learn. She wanted to improve, but she needed individual support, regular practice, and a safe environment where she could learn without fear of being judged.

Sahaara came into contact with Pooja in 2025 when the Pratham Education Centre shifted to a new location after demolition in the area. During the enrolment process at the new centre, Pooja joined the education programme. The teachers soon observed that she was struggling with reading and writing in Hindi and English. They assessed her learning needs and began providing regular educational support.

At the centre, Pooja participated in phonics activities, guided reading sessions, flashcard exercises, word-building games, vocabulary activities, worksheets, and educational games. These helped her recognise letters and sounds, read words more confidently, improve her vocabulary, and form meaningful sentences.

The teachers also gave her individual attention, homework support, and regular reading and writing practice. Most importantly, they encouraged her to read aloud in a safe and supportive environment where mistakes were treated as part of learning. She also received mentoring, encouragement, and positive reinforcement to help her overcome her fear of reading in front of others.

Slowly, Pooja began to find her voice.

Through regular practice and individual guidance, she worked on the specific areas where she was struggling. The supportive classroom environment helped her learn without fear of being embarrassed. Her mother and grandmother also played an important role by encouraging her to attend the education centre, practise her lessons regularly, and remain motivated.

Today, Pooja’s reading, writing, and language skills have improved significantly. She can now read larger words, understand simple passages, and form meaningful sentences in English. The change is also visible in the way she participates in class. She is no longer afraid to read in front of others. She actively takes part in classroom activities and shows greater interest and enthusiasm towards her studies.

The fear that once kept her silent is gradually being replaced by confidence and determination. Her progress has also given hope to her mother and grandmother, who now see her participating more confidently and improving in her studies.

Pooja says, “Earlier, I was afraid to read in front of others because I made mistakes and people laughed at me. After joining Sahaara, my reading and English skills have improved a lot. Now I feel more confident in class and enjoy learning new things. I want to study well and become an engineer in the future.” Her mother shares that Pooja now reads better, participates more in her studies, and has become more confident.

Today, Pooja is a cheerful and determined Grade 7 student who actively participates in the Pratham Education Centre and dreams of becoming an engineer. Her story reminds us that when a child receives patient teaching, encouragement, and a safe space to learn, fear can slowly give way to confidence — and a struggling learner can begin to believe in her future again.

*Name changed to protect identity

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He enjoys talking to people, interacting with others, and being part of group activities. But behind his cheerful nature, there was a quiet struggle. For nearly two years, learning had not been easy for him. Reading, writing, understanding lessons, and communicating in English had become difficult, and slowly, his confidence in the classroom began to weaken.

Aditya had initially studied in an English-medium school. However, because of the family’s financial difficulties, he had to shift to a Hindi-medium school after two years. This sudden change in the medium of instruction created gaps in his learning. His father’s alcohol dependence also affected the family’s financial stability, making it difficult for the family to arrange additional academic support for him.

Aditya was interested in learning, but he needed focused guidance. He needed someone to help him go back to the basics, understand where he was struggling, and patiently walk with him until he could begin to feel confident again.

During the academic year 2025–26, Sahaara introduced a Reading and Writing Skills Programme for children attending the Pratham Education Centre. Through classroom activities and regular assessments, the teachers identified Aditya’s difficulties in reading, writing, comprehension, and communication. A learning plan was then developed according to his level and specific needs.

At the centre, Aditya received remedial education through guided reading, vocabulary exercises, writing practice, comprehension activities, and level-based worksheets. Teachers also used educational games and group activities so that learning would feel engaging and not pressurising. Whenever he faced difficulty, he received individual guidance, and his progress was monitored regularly.

The support was not only academic. Aditya was encouraged to ask questions, participate in discussions, and express his ideas more openly. Along with this, he received mentoring, counselling, motivation, and positive reinforcement. Sahaara staff also stayed connected with his family and encouraged them to support his learning and attendance at home.

Slowly, Aditya began to change.

Instead of expecting him to immediately perform at grade level, the teachers helped him learn step by step. This allowed him to practise basic concepts, understand lessons at his own pace, and become more comfortable with reading and writing. His family also encouraged him to attend school and the education centre regularly and appreciated each improvement he made.

Today, Aditya has made clear progress in reading, writing, comprehension, and communication. He understands his lessons better and completes his schoolwork with greater confidence. He is also more comfortable participating in classroom discussions and group activities. He communicates more openly with teachers and classmates and is increasingly willing to attempt new tasks.

Aditya says, “Sahaara has helped me improve my reading, writing, and English-speaking skills. I am now more confident in my studies and enjoy learning.” His mother shares, “We are very happy with Aditya’s progress. His reading, writing, and confidence have improved a lot after joining Sahaara. We thank the teachers for their support and guidance.”

Aditya continues to grow as a cheerful and motivated learner. With continued academic guidance, he will be able to close the remaining learning gaps and progress more confidently through school. Today, he dreams of becoming a police officer. His story reminds us that when a child receives patient teaching, encouragement, and support at the right time, confidence can return — and learning can become joyful again.

*Name changed to protect identity

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Esha first joined Sahaara’s education centre in 2022. The staff noticed she had a lot of potential, but she had to leave after a year because her grandmother enrolled her in another NGO. In 2024, she rejoined Sahaara and was welcomed into Level 2. When she returned, the team saw that she was struggling again—especially with reading, handwriting, and handling her emotions. The staff began helping her through extra reading and writing lessons, using fun activities like phonics games, picture reading, and letter-tracing worksheets. Her teacher also gave her daily handwriting practice and encouraged her with praise and small rewards. Slowly, Esha started improving in her studies and became more confident.

At the same time, Sahaara helped her understand and manage her feelings. She attended life skills sessions and listened to stories about emotions. In role-play activities, she learned how to solve problems by talking instead of fighting. Esha became calmer and began expressing herself better. She formed a strong bond with her teacher and felt safe at the centre, something she did not always feel at home. Her father continues to do what he can, but her home environment remains emotionally tough, with limited support from her family.

Now, Esha is doing well in school. She enjoys learning and works hard. She no longer fights and tells others, “I will talk instead of arguing.” She wants to become an Army Soldier when she grows up so she can protect her country and help others. Esha said, “Earlier I used to get angry and fight. Now I have learned to talk calmly. I like coming to Sahaara because my teacher understands me and helps me learn better.”

Her family has also noticed the changes. They said, “We have seen a good change in Esha. She is calmer and more focused now. We are thankful to Sahaara for supporting her in studies and helping her become stronger.” Esha’s growth shows how emotional care and consistent support can help a child move towards a better future.

(Names changed to protect identities.)

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In his early years at the centre, Aman was irregular in attendance and lacked interest in studies. He found reading Hindi and English difficult and preferred to spend time with friends instead of completing homework. The Sahaara staff kept encouraging him during this time, helping him stay connected and ensuring he did not drop out completely. These consistent efforts laid the foundation for what would later become a major turning point in his life.

That change came in 2023, when Aman began to reflect more seriously on his studies. With his mother’s concern and gentle guidance from friends and Sahaara teachers, something clicked. The Sahaara team at Project Pratham stepped in with goal-setting lessons, personalised attention, and engaging learning activities that reignited Aman’s motivation. Slowly, he began showing up regularly to class, participating in lessons, and improving his reading and writing skills.

Sahaara also provided school sponsorship and learning materials to ensure finances would not be a barrier. The teachers worked patiently with Aman, using interactive methods and peer learning sessions to make education enjoyable. Aman responded well, becoming more confident and hardworking. He also learned important life skills like discipline and setting personal goals.

Today, Aman dreams of becoming a cricketer and looks up to Virat Kohli—a well-known Indian cricket player known for his determination and success on the field. “I had no interest in studies earlier,” Aman shared. “But with Sahaara’s support, I improved and gained confidence. Now, I want to work hard to achieve my dreams.”

His mother is proud of his progress. “Sahaara’s support has changed Aman’s attitude toward studies. He is now more focused and confident. We are thankful for their help in shaping his future.”

From a boy once unsure about his place in the classroom, Aman has grown into a focused and hopeful learner. Thanks to the support of Project Pratham at Turbhe, he is now walking confidently toward a brighter future.

(Names changed to protect identities.)

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In 2019, she was enrolled under Project Pratham at Sahaara’s Turbhe centre, and that decision changed the direction of her life. The Sahaara team noticed her struggles early on—irregular attendance, lack of interest in sessions, and hesitation in engaging with her peers. Rather than giving up on her, they patiently worked to support and encourage her.

Through regular mentoring and counselling, Aarfa slowly began to open up. The staff spoke with her individually, helped her reflect on her interests and abilities, and made her feel safe and understood. They introduced her to Life Skills sessions, which included activities that built communication, self-confidence, and responsibility. Bit by bit, Aarfa started attending more regularly and showing interest in learning.

Sahaara also involved her in extracurricular activities like Sports Day and holiday camps. Aarfa took part with excitement and even won first place in a running race, something she had never done before. This recognition helped boost her self-esteem, and she began volunteering to help with Balwadi sessions and Sahaara events. One of her proudest moments was when she was invited to lead a Life Skills session at her school, something she never imagined doing before.

Aarfa’s family played a supportive role. Her parents enrolled both her and her younger brother at Sahaara, trusting the team to guide them well. While her academic consistency was affected during her time in the village, Sahaara’s continuous efforts helped her rebuild her learning habits and confidence.

Today, Aarfa is regular in class, proactive, and full of energy. She participates actively in sessions and leads by example. Her teachers have seen a remarkable change in her—from a hesitant girl to a confident learner and young leader. She now speaks up, engages with others, and supports her peers.

“Sahaara has helped me gain confidence and become more active in my studies and activities. I am happy that I can now participate, volunteer, and even take sessions to help others,” Aarfa said proudly.

Her family added, “We are grateful to Sahaara for supporting Aarfa in her education and personal growth. She has become more confident, responsible, and engaged in her studies.”

With a heart full of hope and a dream of becoming a teacher, Aarfa is determined to work hard and give back, just like Sahaara has done for her.

(Names changed to protect identities.)

The post A Confident Step Forward appeared first on Sahaara Charitable Society.

In 2021, Arman was enrolled in Sahaara’s Ghatkopar education centre, where he received the support he needed. Initially, he was irregular in attendance, hesitant to participate in class, and uninterested in learning. The teachers at the centre noticed this and began working closely with him, encouraging him to attend regularly. They focused on improving his reading and writing skills by giving him daily exercises and making him read aloud in front of the class. They introduced a structured learning routine where he practised both short and long words before gradually moving on to reading full sentences. These methods helped him overcome his difficulties step by step.

Sahaara’s teachers not only helped Arman academically but also provided emotional encouragement, making him feel more confident. They acknowledged his small achievements, motivating him to continue learning. Slowly, his reading and writing improved, and he started engaging more in class. He became more active in completing his assignments and developed a habit of regular study. The personalised attention he received helped him overcome his hesitation, and he began looking forward to school. His family, especially his father, expressed deep gratitude for Sahaara’s intervention, as it allowed Arman to access quality education without adding financial strain to their household. His father regularly attends parent meetings and actively supports his children's education.

With continued support from Sahaara, Arman’s confidence has grown, and he now attends remedial classes regularly. His academic performance has improved, opening doors for a better future. His family is relieved, knowing that he is getting the education he needs. Arman dreams of becoming a police officer one day, and with his growing skills and confidence, he is determined to work towards his goal. His family believes that this transformation will bring long-term positive changes, not just for him but also for his siblings.

"I am very happy with my progress, and the way I have built up my confidence to reach my current level is only because of Sahaara’s help," Arman says. His father adds, "I am very thankful for the changes Sahaara has made in Arman. He has developed a keen interest in studying, reading, and writing, and I am very happy with his progress."

*Names changed to protect identities.

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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.

The post Aarif’s Journey from Isolation to Education appeared first on Sahaara Charitable Society.

Adjusting to school was a challenge for Omi. Language barriers made it hard for him to understand lessons, and his strict home environment affected his confidence. He was shy, quiet, and hesitant to participate in classroom activities. He rarely spoke to his classmates and struggled with reading and writing. Throughout the year, his lack of engagement affected his academic performance, making learning feel like a burden rather than an opportunity.

Sahaara’s staff noticed Omi’s difficulties and began working closely with him to improve his learning experience. They introduced interactive teaching methods, using flashcards, educational videos, and storytelling to make lessons easier to understand. To encourage him to interact more, he was paired with a classroom buddy who helped him with his studies and motivated him to participate in activities. Small rewards, such as stickers and words of encouragement, helped build his enthusiasm for learning.

As Omi received personalized attention, his confidence began to grow. He started asking questions in class and showing interest in reading and writing. His academic performance improved, and he began participating in activities that he once avoided. At home, his family played a role in his progress by establishing a regular study routine. Although his father continued to maintain a quiet home, the structured routine helped Omi stay focused and disciplined in his learning.

With Sahaara’s continued support, Omi’s progress is expected to be long-lasting. The learning techniques and confidence-building strategies will help him face future challenges in his education. His family’s involvement in his studies ensures that he has a stable environment to continue growing. Omi now dreams of becoming a police officer, and the foundation he has built through Sahaara’s intervention will help him work towards his goal.

“I am very happy with my progress, and the way I have built up my confidence to reach my current level is only because of Sahaara’s help,” Omi says. His father adds, “I am very thankful for the changes Sahaara has made in Omi. He has developed a keen interest in studying, reading, writing, and participating in activities. I am very happy with his progress.”

*Names changed to protect identities.

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As it is said, “there are always periodic opportunities to give up, while every single moment is an opportunity to persevere”. Neeta, one of our participants from Turbhe is truly a live example of perseverance.

Neeta comes from a large family comprising of six members. As their house is too small for six members, they have moved to a rented house to accommodate the whole family. Neeta’s father works as a fruit vendor and is the sole breadwinner of the family. Her mother takes care of the household.

Neeta has been attending our education program since Balwadi (Early Childhood Education). She is now 16 years old and is a part of our youth program. She is a diligent and dedicated student and is determined to be a teacher.

She studied in a Hindi medium school from Grade 1 to Grade 9. Although the quality of education was average in that school, Neeta would still try to go through all the lessons on her own. When she passed Grade 9 in the same school, she wanted to move to a school with better quality of education, so that she would score good marks in Grade 10 board examination.

Having known Neeta since her early days of education, the teachers were confident that she will make the most of the opportunity to study in a good school. Accordingly, she was shifted to another school and was also enrolled in a good home tuition. Neeta focused on her education despite all the struggles and challenges at home as she was also expected to help her mother in household chores.

Seeing her determination in studies, the tuition teacher offered her an opportunity to give tuition for students from Grade 7 to Grade 9. Neeta happily grabbed the opportunity and worked with her tuition teacher for a month. Neeta also volunteers at our Education Centre by helping weaker students in their studies. Finally, Neeta graduated from Grade 10 in June 2022 by scoring 73% and has recently been admitted to college for her higher education, a step closer towards achieving her dream of becoming a teacher!

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