To help more girls go to school daily, Tharuni, through its "Cycle to School" initiative aims to donate at least 500 bicycles a year to girls from economically poor families. No more travel hassles, as they will be more independent and empowered in their fight for education. The Cycle to School initiative prevents not only school dropouts, but also eventual child labour and child marriage of the girls, and potentially stops trafficking.
The Census 2011 states that the dropout rate of girls in Telangana is 38.21%, which is quite worrying. Lack of safety, Mobility and the fear of being eve-teased are the main reasons for girls to discontinue school. The dropped out girls either end up married before the legal age or struggle as Child Labourers. Even worse, they are trafficked. Education is their only means to challenge the odds, and "Cycle to School" is making it a reality!
Donating as many bicycles to girls from poor families will facilitate their dream of pursuing education without any hassles. The cycles will help instill a sense of independence in the girls, and their school-going journey will be safer, faster and only better!
Through 'Tharuni Swecha - Cycle to School Campaign for Girls', as more girls are empowered with bicycles, they are educated and hence prevented from being married off at a young age. Lack of transportation and concerns of distance will no longer bother girls who wish to pursue their education. As a result, the dropout rates are minimised and female literacy could be improved in the long run.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
