Empowering Lives through Education: Don Bosco Makkalalaya’s Journey of Transformation

“Education is the most powerful weapon that we can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

Don Bosco Makkalalaya, implementing partner of BREADS in Mysuru, was honoured with an “Appreciation Award” during the Anti-Child Labour Day programme organised by the Mysore district administration. The award recognised their outstanding work and service in integrating dropouts, child labourers, and at-risk youth into mainstream society through education. The programme was attended by the District Magistrate, District Collector, Police Commissioner, and other senior government officials.

During the event, three students from Don Bosco Makkalalaya shared their inspiring journeys from being child labourers to successful individuals:

Nayana Kumari:

Nayana Kumari had to drop out of school after her father’s death and worked as a child labourer for five years. Encouraged by a friend, she joined Don Bosco Makkalalaya, which provides support to dropouts through the SSLC and PUC open school programme. Nayana successfully cleared her SSLC exams on her first attempt, followed by PUC and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) with a first-class honours. Currently, she works as a staff member in Don Bosco Makkalalaya and plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) while continuing her employment.

Sony:

Sony faced numerous challenges in her life that halted her education. After getting married and becoming a mother of two, she was motivated by a staff member at Don Bosco Makkalalaya to resume her education through the SSLC open school programme. Sony recently passed her SSLC exams with a second-class. She is now capable of teaching her children and feels confident in facing life’s challenges. Sony has made the decision to continue her studies at Don Bosco Makkalalaya.

Harry:

Harry had to leave school when his father fell chronically ill. As the eldest son, he took on the family responsibilities and worked as a child labourer for three years. His life changed when he discovered Don Bosco Makkalalaya. With determination, Harry successfully cleared his SSLC and PUC exams on his first attempts. His passion for education has grown, and he envisions a bright future for himself. Harry believes that Don Bosco Makkalalaya has given him hope for a better future and plans to pursue further studies at an ITI (Industrial Training Institute).

These stories highlight the transformative power of education in the lives of these individuals, demonstrating the impactful work done by Don Bosco Makkalalaya in empowering marginalised youth and enabling them to build a better future for themselves.