The Struggles of Manshachawk
In the heart of Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, lies the slum of Manshachawk—a bustling settlement of around 500 homes and 2,500 people. The residents, migrants from Bangladesh, Assam, and other Indian states, are engaged in garbage collection, rag-picking, and various forms of unorganized labor. Life in Manshachawk is a daily struggle, marked by poverty, illiteracy, and the absence of basic needs. Substance abuse is rampant, and the lack of valid documents like Aadhar cards excludes them from government welfare schemes. The children, often left alone when their parents leave for work, are vulnerable to abuse and trafficking, with some children never returning home.
The Turning Point: CTH Study Centre's Inception
In 2023, a glimmer of hope emerged with the inception of the CTH Study Centre, part of the LIC HFL CTH project implemented by the ARCH Foundation in collaboration with LIC Housing Finance. This initiative aimed to transform the lives of Manshachawk's children and, eventually, the entire community. The centre initially enrolled 54 children, a significant achievement considering most children were accustomed to accompanying their parents to work, having never set foot in a school.
Bringing these children to the centre was a monumental task. The project team had to adjust the centre’s timings to accommodate the children's work schedules. This flexible approach made a significant difference, as children began attending the centre regularly. For the first time, these children held pencils instead of garbage bags, and the transformation began.
Overcoming Hurdles: Education and Beyond
The initial six months were challenging but rewarding. The children started learning to read and write basic words, a remarkable achievement for those who had never experienced formal education. However, a turning point came when one of the centre’s children went missing and couldn’t be found. This incident underscored the importance of addressing broader issues beyond basic education.
In response, the project team expanded their efforts to include sessions for mothers on child safety, child rights, and child psychology. They also tackled the challenges faced by mothers and adolescent girls through one-on-one counseling, meetings, and community engagement programs. These sessions provided vital knowledge and support, empowering the women to safeguard their children and improve their own lives.
Battling Bureaucracy: The Struggle for School Admissions
A significant challenge was enrolling these children in formal schools. The team faced resistance and discouraging remarks from government school authorities, who doubted the children's potential and questioned their right to education. Statements like “In logo ka kuch nehi hoga, ye pad likh gaye to kachra kaun binega? Inko wohi kaam karne do" (These people will not improve; if they study, who will collect garbage? Let them continue with their work) were disheartening.
Undeterred, the project team worked tirelessly to understand the admission process and address the lack of necessary documents. Despite the Universal Act of Education mandating admission for all children, bureaucratic hurdles persisted. The breakthrough came when Ms. Anjali, the principal of Sr. Global School, stepped forward to welcome these children into her school. Today, 22 children are enrolled in school, with nine attending Sr. Global School, thanks to scholarships granted based on their learning levels and backgrounds.
Impact and Way Forward
The impact of the CTH Study Centre has been profound. In the past six months, there have been no reported cases of abuse or child trafficking in Manshachawk. In 2023, five children were enrolled in school, and by 2024, this number had increased to 22, with nine attending private schools on scholarships. The centre has not only provided education but has also fostered a sense of hope and possibility within the community.
The journey is far from over. The project team continues to advocate for these children’s rights and work towards their holistic development. The success of the CTH Study Centre in Manshachawk is a testament to the power of education and community support in transforming lives. With continued effort and dedication, the future holds promise for the children and families of Manshachawk, paving the way for a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow.
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