The neediest groups are the Koli (aboriginal people), families of the Muslim minority and the Dalit, the untouchables not belonging to any castes. They live as peon families directly depending on the local landlord. Their hamlets are situated in remote areas far from the roads, lacking proper water sources or connection to public services. Often the next school is situated several miles away, health care centres are out of reach.

The majority of the people is illiterate. For the children visiting school is hardly possible, though it is free of charge in India. Schools are far away and often the children are needed as a helping hand for the work in the fields. When in school children coming from marginalized families often are mistreated. They are not allowed to eat with the others a practice of untouchability. Sometimes they are even forced to clean toilets or the teachers house. Thats why it is rare that a child reaches the end of fifth grade.

Our partner organisation, the St. Xaviers Non-Formal Education Society (SXNFES), is acting in favour of the marginalised population in three districts touched by the earthquake. An important component in order to strengthen the rights of the poorest is enabling their children and adolescents to visit school. By the bias of education and a rising self-respect they get the opportunity to free themselves from dependence and poverty.

SXNFES organizes preschool groups in 60 hamlets, where every year 1,200 children, aged between three and six years, are prepared for school by playing and offering creative activities. Also older children not attending school are assisted in youth groups; for many of them informal literacy programs are offered.

In addition parents are sensitized for the need of education. Three years after starting the program success is remarkable. More and more children coming from the poorest hamlets are signed up for school. Teachers and parents act together in favour of the children if problems occur. As in one particular village school none of the teachers showed up in summer the parents obtained the appointment of a new teacher. Today in this village every child can visit school.