Education Support has transformed the life of Ashiq Sarkar, a resident of Durgapur Sardarpara in Kumarkhali, who has become a beacon of hope for his community. Ashiq’s father, Parith Sarkar, and mother, Lakshmi Rani Sarkar, are both daily laborers. As the elder of two brothers, Ashiq dreamt of pursuing higher education, and FAIR’s ‘Child Animation Center’ provided the necessary Education Support to help him realize this dream.

In 2007, Ashiq enrolled in a nursery class at the FAIR’s ‘Child Animation Centre’ in the Adivasi village of Kumarkhali. This center, a crucial part of FAIR’s Education Support program, aims to provide essential educational resources to children from underprivileged communities. Beyond basic education, the center fosters a culture of learning through extra-curricular activities like singing, dancing, poetry, and educational tours, creating a stimulating educational environment for children.

Run by a dedicated animator, the Child Animation Center ensures that children like Ashiq are enrolled in mainstream schools and attend classes regularly. The animator, acting as a parental figure, organizes monthly meetings with parents to raise awareness about the importance of education. This initiative has been pivotal in the marginalized Adivasi community, where Education Support has played a key role in reducing child labor and child marriage. The positive impact of FAIR’s Education Support program is evident in the changing outlook of the village, where child marriage and dropout rates have significantly decreased.

After clearing the SSC exam in 2019, Ashiq realized the profound contribution of the FAIR ‘Child Animation Center’ and its Education Support to his success. After completing higher secondary education, he is now a final-year degree student at Kumarkhali Government College. His academic achievements are groundbreaking, especially in Adivasi villages, where no one had previously passed primary school.

Ashiq’s aspirations extend beyond personal success; he aims to alleviate poverty in his family and community. By utilizing his education, he hopes to improve the quality of life in tribal villages. Understanding the power of Education Support, Ashiq inspires others in his community to continue their education, breaking the cycle of poverty and illiteracy.

Ashiq’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of FAIR’s Education Support and its ‘Child Animation Center.’ It highlights how targeted educational programs can change lives and uplift entire communities. Through FAIR’s activities, many more children like Ashiq have been able to fulfill their dreams and continue contributing positively to society. Ashiq Sarkar’s journey inspires us all.