Through ‘Going to School Support’ Mina can now focus on her education
Mina’s story
Meet Mina*, a bright and determined fifth-grade student from Solukhumbu, Nepal. Known in her classroom for her energy and enthusiasm, she has a passion for reading and a love for dance. At home, she helps her aunt cook and supports her younger siblings with their homework. Her kindness, curiosity, and commitment to learning have made her a standout student, qualities that have only grown with the support of the Going to School Support program delivered by REED Nepal and the Australian Himalayan Foundation.
Mina was born in a small village into a family of seven. After the passing of her father, and with her mother living with a physical disability, life became increasingly difficult. With household income stretched thin, school supplies were often out of reach. Determined to continue her education, Mina began working in other people’s homes, balancing her studies with household chores to help support her family and buy basic materials like notebooks and pens.
Supporting Mina to stay in school
Her determination did not go unnoticed. When her aunt learned of her situation, she stepped in to help. Despite working as farm labourers and raising two children of their own, Mina’s aunt and uncle rented a small room near Mina’s School so her and her cousins could attend regularly. Their support gave Mina the space and stability she needed to focus on her education.
Still, the cost of school materials remained a barrier. Recognising both her potential and her challenges, the school’s head teacher recommended Mina to REED Nepal as a candidate for the Going to School Support program. After visiting her home, REED staff selected her for the program.
This program provided everything she needed to stay in school. Uniforms, stationery, a school bag, and the confidence that comes with being supported. Since receiving the scholarship, Mina has continued to thrive in class. Her academic progress has been consistent, and her sense of purpose has grown stronger.
A bright future ahead
Looking ahead, Mina dreams of becoming a social worker. Inspired by those who helped her when she needed it most, she hopes to one day support children facing challenges just like hers.
Thanks to the dedication of her family, the commitment of REED Nepal, and the generosity of AHF supporters, Mina is flourishing. Her journey is a powerful reminder of how education and community support can create real and lasting change in a child’s life.
About our Going to School Support program
Part of our wider education program, the Going to School Support initiative helps ensure that underprivileged students have the supplies they need to stay in school. For $150, you can support one student’s education for an entire year with materials including including notebooks, pens, a geometry box, pencils, erasers, a backpack, and personal care items like a towel, shampoo, soap, toothbrush and toothpaste. These essentials, along with financial aid, help students at home and in the classroom to be school ready. Your donation can make a real difference in the life of a student like Mina.
Donate today and help more children access the education they deserve.
Our education program in Nepal is funded by generous Australian Himalayan Foundation donors and the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).
Read more about our Education Programs.
*Student’s name has been changed to protect their identity.
