Reach for the stars
‘You have the right to a good quality education. You should be encouraged to go to school to the highest level you can.’ So says the United Nations (UN) convention on the rights of the child.
At our pre-school classes (or Balwadis) in the Doddigunta slum community, Bangalore, we are making sure children get the best possible start so that when they go to school, they can learn quickly.
Jason is 4-years-old and has been coming to the Balwadi for two years. His mother Jacyntha says, ‘I know they teach him very well. Before he was stubborn and naughty. Now he is less naughty. I am planning to send my second son here, when he turns two and a half.’ The family is also receiving counseling from Oasis because there is a lot of quarreling at home.
 Life for many families in the community is challenging and many of the children come from difficult backgrounds. There are problems of unemployment, alcoholism, gambling and violence. The children at the Bawladi get lunch and snacks, so that they have at least one nutritious meal a day.
One of the teachers at the Balwadi, Beth Benedict, received sponsorship from a lady in France. This money paid for Beth’s school fees and enabled her to finish her education after her father lost his job.
She says, ‘When I was young somebody sponsored my education and I grew up with their help. Now I like teaching the children here who come from a very poor background. If we give these children a firm foundation in education, I feel that this will help them in the same way it helped me. I love children and I love teaching them.’
The children enjoy coming to the Balwadi, where they learn to read, write and count and can play with toys, play games and draw pictures. ‘Coming here helps them,’ says Beth. The children are here from 9.30 to 3.30. They are here with us and they see our love.
‘They are very happy being here. We give them the best which will stay with them and help them in other schools.’
Who knows, given the right opportunities and encouragement, these children could go on to become the future leaders and shapers of India.
Like the UN, Oasis India believes that children should be encouraged to study to the highest level they can. Learn how we’re equipping children, and get more information about our education and vocational training programmes, here.
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