Pooja is a 19-year old girl from village Guwadi (District: Dhar). Pooja came to Barli Institute in November 2015 for pursuing the six month training program. Pooja hails from a backward tribal village in Dhar district but fortunately her father always believed that daughters also have a right to good education. He decided to send Pooja to Barli Institute so that she would be empowered and motivated to pursue higher education and be an example to all other girls in her village. Pooja excelled in her academic performance at the Barli Institute. She not only sharpened her skills and knowledge at Barli but was always ready to help other trainees in learning. After completing the six month training at Barli, Pooja returned to her village all charged-up to continue her further studies. She passed her 12th grade exams and is currently enrolled in a college pursuing a degree in agriculture.
Pooja has set an example in her village and also encouraged many other girls to continue their education although this means traveling a considerable distance to the next neighboring town. She also teaches the children of her neighbourhood about hygiene, human values and environmental protection. She does stitching/sewing too and teaches this skill to other women in her village.
Pooja says, “Education gives confidence. Education gives wings. Education makes dreams possible”. She is empowered to take charge of not only her life but is a shining light for all the girls in her village. Pooja’s father is very proud of his daughter. He says that the training at the Barli Institute with support from Mona Foundation has motivated his daughter to pursue higher education. He believes that there is no difference between a girl child and a boy child. Both should have equal opportunities of education. He cannot stop smiling when the villagers praise his daughter for teaching the children and women of the village. He is happy that she contributes in the development of the village community
