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Nisha was only 3 years old when her mother went through a divorce. Not only was Rekha, Nisha’s mother heartbroken, but she was gravely worried about her daughter’s future. Coming from an underprivileged background, she had no financial means. But, in the face of odds stacked against her, she stood strong for her child.
She gathered herself together and started looking for jobs. For almost 10 years, she worked at an Aanganwadi. But, that could barely help her earn a decent livelihood.
“I used to earn Rs 2300 per month. I along with my daughter and mother lived in a shanty. Most of my money used to go in paying the rent. Making ends meet was almost impossible,” Rekha said.
After my mother’s death, things became even more difficult, she says. But, with the help of a few women in the neighbourhood, she came to know about Saath, an NGO that helped her find a job as a caregiver. The job helps her earn Rs 10,000 a month.
Nisha has seen a lot in her span of 14 years now. From living without a father to not having a single meal a day, she has gone through a lot. But, nothing could dampen the spirit of this 14-year-old.
Student of Class 9, she is a brilliant child and is one among the toppers of the class. She has been awarded a complete scholarship for her secondary school education. She has also received the award for best student.
Nisha’s weak subjects are Math and Science. She is taking extra tuitions. The total tuition fees amount to Rs 32,000. She wants to top her Class 10 Board exams.
Rekha has been saving all her money for her daughter’s education. She has already paid Rs 16,000. But, with no savings left, she doesn’t know how to go about paying the other half. “I don’t have anyone to ask for help,” she said.
