Day of Celebration: First Dalit Children Graduate

February 28, 2009 will stand out as a moment of triumph as the Dalit Education Centres celebrated their first-ever graduation service.

With blue satin caps and gowns, 17 boys and girls stood with beaming faces as a large crowd of people applauded their accomplishment in completing a full course in basic education in the English language. Two other schools sent their graduates via video, giving testimonies of thanks and a hopeful future. In all, nearly 50 children emerged as successful graduates.

Many of these children did not stand a chance of a new future until the Dalit Education Centres (DECs) began 10 years ago. They were condemned to a life of severe poverty and ruthless oppression like the generations before them because they were labelled as outcasts.

Please visit OM Aid to see how you can be involved!

February 28, 2009 will stand out as a moment of triumph as the Dalit Education Centres celebrated their first-ever graduation service.

With blue satin caps and gowns, 17 boys and girls stood with beaming faces as a large crowd of people applauded their accomplishment in completing a full course in basic education in the English language.Two other schools sent their graduates via video, giving testimonies of thanks and a hopeful future. In all, nearly 50 children emerged as successful graduates.

Many of these children did not stand a chance of a new future until the Dalit Education Centres (DECs) began 10 years ago. They were condemned to a life of severe poverty and ruthless oppression like the generations before them because they were labelled as outcastes.

However, the DECs have changed all of that. These boys and girls stand at the threshold of a new beginning. They have been empowered to pursue careers as doctors, engineers and teachers.

Even as they prepare to leave their school campuses and face the world outside, graduates are offered all the support they need for their futures. Each child will have access to career counselling so he/she can make the best personal career choice.

Currently there are 82 DECs with 13,500 Dalit children. At each of these centres, Dalit children are being provided with high quality English language education, giving them the opportunity to break free from centuries of illiteracy and poverty and begin a new future. The DECs also engage in holistic community development activities including medical care and economic development initiatives. These offer entire Dalit communities opportunities for social growth and welfare. Many Dalit families have benefited from these programs and revel in the emancipation they now have.

While the success stories increase every day, the massive need that still exists is sobering. Many Dalit children require sponsorship to continue their English-language education. Several aspects of this educational movement are also in need of funds. The work is far from over.

We deeply appreciate each person who has been involved in the movement. Thank you so much for your prayers and support.

Please visit OM Aid to see how you can be involved!