An urgent appeal to save girls from traffickers

Dear GlobalGiving Family,

We would like to express our deepest gratitude for your support towards two young scholars pursuing higher education despite significant personal and social challenges that once threatened their futures.

Your contribution has done more than fund their education, it has provided stability, opportunity, and the confidence to pursue their aspirations. Today, both scholars remain enrolled in university and continue to make steady progress in their academic journeys. They are focused on their studies, committed to their goals, and determined to build independent futures. Your generosity is helping them stay on course and create brighter opportunities for themselves.

*name changed to protect privacy

Pooja’s Progress Update:

Pooja is currently in the final year of her Bachelors of Arts at a reputed university in Rajasthan. The past year has continued to be emotionally challenging, as she faces persistent pressure from family members to get married. With both parents no longer alive, her relatives believe that marriage would help settle family responsibilities. Financial constraints within the household have further increased this pressure, often leaving Pooja feeling anxious about her future.

Currently, Pooja is on her summer vacation and is staying in Mumbai with her elder sister. During this period, she has been facing additional pressure from her sister, who is engaged in sex work, to join the sex work and contribute financially towards her brother’s wedding. Despite these challenges, Pooja remains committed to completing her education and building an independent life. She continues to stand firm in her decision to prioritize her studies and has not allowed these pressures to affect her academic performance.

As she enters her final year, ensuring a smooth transition into employment has become critical. Securing sustainable livelihood opportunities will help Pooja support herself and her family financially while reducing her vulnerability to exploitation and pressure to enter sex work. With continued educational support, career guidance, and mentoring, Pooja is steadily working towards a more secure and self-reliant future.

Kiran’s* Progress Update:

Kiran is currently in the second year of her Bachelors of Arts at a reputed university in Rajasthan. Over the past year, she has continued to demonstrate resilience and determination in her educational journey. Having overcome the self-doubt and adjustment challenges she faced when first joining the institution, Kiran has grown into a confident and focused student who is comfortable navigating the university environment.

While she initially found some new subjects challenging, particularly Public Administration, she has gradually developed a better understanding of the coursework and continues to adapt well to the academic demands of higher education.

Currently on her summer vacation, Kiran is staying at home and using her time productively by attending free online classes through YouTube to further strengthen her spoken English and general knowledge. Despite her father’s dominant and controlling behaviour, Kiran remains committed to her education. Living away from home for most of the year has helped her continue her studies and avoid the risk of being drawn into sex work, a pathway that has affected other women in her community. With continued educational support and guidance, Kiran is well-positioned to build on her progress and create greater opportunities for herself in the years ahead.

Our Reflections

The past year has marked another step forward for Pooja and Kiran as they continue their higher education and work towards their goals. Through perseverance and commitment, they are building greater confidence, independence, and opportunities for the future. Your support has played a meaningful role in making this progress possible.

With Deep Gratitude,

Team iPartner India