Twelve-year-old Asia, a dedicated student in grade 3, has faced tremendous obstacles in her journey toward education. However, she has also discovered the joy of learning and personal achievement. After achieving the highest marks in her second-grade class, Asia is determined to see continued success in the current third grade, which she is now attending. Asia attends a Community-Based Education (CBE) class that AWEC established under the TDH-funded project in April 2022. Despite her present success, Asia’s story wasn’t always a happy one. Born into extreme poverty, her parents were heartbroken to see their child, in their words, “wandering the streets.” Struggling to cover basic needs, they knew they couldn’t transport her to the distant formal school or afford any fees for school supplies. When the CBE classroom opened in their community, a weight lifted off their shoulders, and they began to see a brighter future for Asia. Her parents were astounded to see her outstanding performance, considering merely attending school a success. Recently, Asia was recognized in her village as one of the top students in her grade. Amongst 43 students in her class, she regularly attends her 3rd-grade CBE class every day. Reflecting on her achievements from last year, Asia shared, “I felt very happy when my teacher and the education coordinator congratulated me, and my classmates cheered me for getting the top position in my class. I became more excited about my future." “I am eager to sustain my high grades to continue my education,” says Asia. “As soon as I come back from class, I study, and if I have time, I help my mom.” Asia hopes that one day she will have a better school environment, with desks and a nice building. “I want to thank my parents for believing in my education and thank AWEC for supporting us to learn,” says Asia. Asia's teacher describes her as the top student in her class, always punctual and helping her peers to learn. “She is a true inspiration to the whole class,” says Asia’s teacher. “I hope all parents will do the same as Asia’s father – believe in the value of educating girls.” Asia has learned mathematics, reading, and writing skills, and she especially enjoys her lessons on painting and drawing. She actively participates in class with joy and interest. “I hope one day my father can see my graduation from higher education and I will become a doctor or a teacher,” she said. Her teacher, Kamila, observed, “Sometimes she was teaching her classmates and actively attended group activities. She did her homework regularly, and I often saw her studying during break times. I am proud to see my student get the first position in our neighborhood.” AWEC's CBE classrooms operate in community buildings in remote areas, closer to students' homes. Hub schools are often too far and difficult to access for children, making CBE an invaluable initiative in these hard-to-reach areas.

07-26-2024