Aarti comes from a small village (Bojhaheri) where life has never been easy. Her father works as a daily-wage labourer, working long hours just to put meals on his kids’ plates. She grew up alongside her two elder sisters and two younger brothers in an environment where opportunities especially for girls are limited.
After completing her 8th class exams, Aarti found herself at a crossroads. Her father simply could not afford to enroll her in school again. The family waited and hoped for a place in a government school, but no opportunity came due to limited seats and a high number of applications. With each passing day, Aarti’s fear grew stronger.
She had seen what happened to girls in her village, how their education quietly ended, how dreams faded, and how early marriage became their only path. She feared the same future for herself. Many nights, she lay awake, overwhelmed with worry, and often cried alone, feeling as though everything she had hoped for was slipping away.
Just when it seemed like there was no way forward, a new possibility emerged when Panth’s team visited the village and spoke about the importance of girls’ education. They shared how the Foundation was helping girls continue their studies despite financial and social challenges. For Aarti, it felt like a small light in the darkness.
She was hesitant to say anything, but since she didn’t have any other option, she gathered her courage and approached Panth’s team. What followed changed her life. Team members met her mother, helped them gather the required documents, and personally spoke with the school principal. Because of their efforts, Aarti was granted admission. A door that once seemed permanently closed had opened again.
Along with this, Aarti was invited to join the Foundation’s Remedial Education Centre for after-school support. Walking into the centre for the first time, she felt something she had not felt in a long time. Surrounded by girls with similar struggles, she realized she was not alone. The teachers supported her patiently, helping her catch up in studies, guiding her through challenges, and rebuilding her confidence. Most importantly, the support came without any financial burden on her family. Slowly, Aarti began to rediscover herself.
Today, she is back in school, studying regularly and with determination. The fear that once held her back has transformed into strength. Her family feels relieved, and their happiness reflects the change in her life.
Now, Aarti dares to dream beyond her circumstances. Currently pursuing Class 10, she aspires to become a police officer, someone who can stand strong, protect women, and ensure that no girl has to give up her education due to fear or pressure. She wants to change not just her own life, but the lives of many girls like her. This is not just the story of a girl returning to school, it is the story of building hope again.