From humble beginnings in Hazaribag 75 years ago, Jesuit Mission’s commitment to education and opportunity continues today through young leaders like Birbal.
At 28 years old, Birbal is helping bring education and opportunity to children in rural Hazaribag through his work as a teacher at Tenuahi School.
Originally from Garhwa district, Birbal completed his teacher training in Hazaribag before joining the school when it first opened in 2023.
Since arriving at Tenuahi School three years ago, Birbal has seen significant change in both the students and the wider community. Families are increasingly prioritising education, and students are becoming more confident both inside and outside the classroom.
“After spending time with them, they are taking interest not only in their studies, but also in cultural activities. Their confidence is growing and their vision for the future is widening,” Birbal says.
Birbal teaches English, maths and science across multiple year levels, from kindergarten to year 7. Students are also encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities including sports and cultural programs, where they sing and dance in their native language, alongside tree planting and caring for the school environment.
Some students walk between five and ten kilometres each day to reach school, while during the rainy season others must travel by boat when flooding from a nearby reservoir cuts off road access.
“I want to serve children from rural areas so they can receive an education and a better life.”
Birbal
Poverty, remoteness and limited infrastructure continue to create challenges for many families seeking education for their children.
Despite these barriers, teachers and staff regularly visit villages and meet with families and community leaders to encourage school attendance and build trust in education.
In 2025, thanks to the generosity of our Jesuit Mission community, the school supported 270 students from Korwa and other marginalised communities.
“Thank you. It is because of this help from Australia that these children are able to live with greater dignity and purpose,” Birbal says.
Find out more about our 75 years of faith in action
This story comes from Reflections Winter 2026.
Contents include:
- A legacy continued, India
- Dreaming beyond borders, Myanmar
- A future once thought impossible, Cambodia
- Where seeds of hope take root, Timor-Leste
- Helping children find their voice, Myanmar
- Plus more from our 75th anniversary celebrations, including stories from long-time supporter sand volunteers
