My name is Sabitra Sarki (14), studying in grade 7 at Shri Gaurishankar Basic School. I am from a village called ‘Chature’ ward No. 6 of Panchpuri Municipality, Surkhet District. In our joint family of 10, I’m the only one currently attending the school.
Until now, I hadn’t had the opportunity to be involved in any organization’s activities. Everything changed when Caritas Nepal formed a children’s club in our school in the August 2023, with the aim of developing the capabilities of children according to the school’s plan. I had the opportunity to become a member of the club. In the beginning, I did not feel comfortable socializing with others; I was shy, afraid, and didn’t pay much attention to my studies. I also didn’t participate in the extra-curricular activities organized by the school and often argued with my parents at home.
Slowly, Caritas Nepal taught us to prepare our club’s annual plan. Accordingly, we started organizing many competitions in the school, such as quizzes, debates, and poetry recitations contests. Additionally, to enhance the capabilities of children, trainings on leadership development; child rights and social protection, and awareness programs on child marriage and the ‘Chhaupadi’1 practice were conducted. We choose to showcase ‘Chhaupadi’ through street drama because this harmful custom persists in Panchapuri Municipality, although its prevalence has decreased compared to the past. Almost one hundred community members saw our street drama, and I hope our child club has made our community aware of the issue. These programs have given me the opportunity to understand my responsibilities and duties. I feel confident and actively participate in school activities, even winning several competitions.
I feel this program has helped me to enhance by hidden capacities, which has brought a significant change in my life. Now, I feel comfortable speaking in public places and can express my thoughts openly. My behavior towards my parents has changed, and seeing this change, they are very happy. I have learned the importance of loving those younger than me and respecting those who are older. Before, I had no knowledge about child rights, child labor, exploitation, trafficking, and child sexual abuse. If someone teased me, I had no choice but to tolerate it. Now, I know that if someone behaves badly, I should inform the relevant authorities. Before, I was afraid to walk alone on the road and could not go anywhere without friends. But now, I have developed the courage to face any problem. I have developed a habit of exploring new things because of the extra curriculum activities that encourage us to be creative. My parents also participated in the awareness programs on child rights and protection, which have helped to improve the bonds within our family and have brought positive changes to their behavior. This program has taught me that one must always move forward towards their goals in life, which is a matter of pride. By staying dedicated to my studies and moving forward, I hope to become a good civil servant and serve my country and people in the future.
Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Caritas Nepal for establishing the child club program. This initiation has empowered me and many other children. I would also like to extend my thanks to Caritas Australia and Australian Aid for their generous financial support. I hope similar empowerment programs will continue to be implemented in the future for other children’s benefit.
