Opening the doors with literacy

In the small village of Patra Kalan in India’s Hazaribag district, literacy rates among females are just 41%. For women from Dalit and tribal families, opportunities are even more limited. Without education, many girls are confined to domestic work, and societal norms discourage their schooling, leaving them vulnerable to early marriage and exploitation.

The Grihini Centre, supported by Jesuit Mission, is changing that narrative. This nine-month program offers education, life skills, and vocational training to empower young women with confidence, independence, and opportunities for a brighter future.

The program includes classes in Hindi, basic English, mathematics, tailoring, and household management. Participants engage in personal development workshops, play sports, and join cultural activities to build self-esteem. They also plant trees in their villages, embodying Care for Our Common Home.

Thanks to your support, 21 girls participated in the program this year:

Among these students is Meena, whose story highlights the program’s life-changing impact. Born into a low-caste family, Meena faced early marriage at 17 but defied expectations.

She fled her arranged marriage, worked briefly in a call centre under harsh conditions, and returned home determined to change her future.

An outreach educator introduced her to the Grihini Centre, where she embraced the opportunity to learn and grow. Meena excelled, passing her government school exams with 75% while tutoring others in her community. Today, she dreams of becoming a nurse.

"I’ve witnessed the struggle for nursing care in my locality. I want to help make a difference,” says Meena.

Meena’s story is a testament to your generosity. Thank you for transforming lives and empowering young women to uplift their communities.