#Proud father full

A full supporter of her dreams, Meghraj was happy to hear Aanchal wanted to become a lawyer. He regularly discusses Aanchal’s progress with her teachers and ensures she receives the necessary books, stationary, and a minimum of two to three hours of daily study time. Over time Meghraj has built his confidence and become a strong advocate for his daughter’s education. “I’m illiterate and during the first meeting I thought I would not be able to answer any questions, but all my fears vanished in no time,” he says. When first attending Room to Read’s parent meetings, Aanchal’s father hardly spoke up.

Although, she’s not the only one in her family benefiting from the program. Since enrolling in Room to Read’s Girls’ Education Program in 2013, Aanchal has acquired key skills to deal with the day-to-day challenges that could hinder her ability to continue school. Thanks to the 2009 Right to Education Act, children now receive free education in India’s government schools up to class 8, enabling Aanchal and her younger brother to continue their studies. Since then Aanchal’s older siblings have worked at a nearby factory to supplement the family income. Meghraj, a 45-year-old agricultural laborer and father of four, couldn’t afford to send his eldest children to school beyond class 5. Fortunately for 15-year-old Aanchal, Room to Read’s Girl’s Education Program not only inspired her, but also sparked interest from her father. For many girls in India school and family support hardly go hand in hand. Parental participation makes all the difference in a child’s education.