In the annals of 2006, Prahlad Singh and Rajesh Ahlawat found themselves assigned as guest teachers in the Government High School in Khandawali, a village in the Faridabad district of Haryana, predominantly inhabited by the Muslim community.
A School with 300 Enrolled Children
Upon their arrival, they were confronted with a stark reality — a mere 300 children were enrolled in the school, and even they came primarily for the mid-day meal. Determined to instigate change, the two teachers, joined by their colleague Yadaram, devised a strategy.
Motivating Parents for Educational Pursuits
The trio initiated a proactive approach, contacting parents for meaningful interactions. Their mission: to inspire and persuade parents to send their children to school. Tireless dedication characterized their efforts, resulting in a significant breakthrough.
A Blossoming School and Shifting Dynamics
Over the next fifteen years, Khandawali witnessed a transformative journey. The village, once home to 6,000 people, located 50 kilometers south of the capital, now stands as a testament to the success of PM Modi’s “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” campaign.
Educational Renaissance: Girls at the Forefront
Enrollment surged, and an intriguing shift emerged – more girls than boys sought admission, shattering conventional norms. The school took deliberate steps to foster holistic development, incorporating sports training into the curriculum.
Girls and Women Pursuing Higher Education
Fast forward to today, and Khandawali boasts a vibrant landscape of education. Girls and women navigate the paths to schools and colleges, transcending traditional constraints. Muslim girls, once bound by societal restrictions, now travel to Delhi for college.
Academic and Sporting Achievements
The success extends beyond academics. The village celebrates the triumphs of its young men and women in sports, with medals from various tournaments adorning their achievements.
From Village to University
The ripple effect of this educational awakening reverberates as girls from Khandawali find themselves enrolled in prestigious institutions like Jamia Millia Islamia Central University, Delhi, Nehru College of Faridabad, and even pursuing medicine and pharmacy in the heart of Delhi.
For a detailed story, please visit: Awaz the voice
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