Life Stories of Dalit Women in the Computer Diploma Program*
Saritha's Story:
Saritha aged eighteen was born in the village Pathiyavaram. Her family belongs to the Dalit Christian community. At the age of three, Saritha lost her parents. She cannot recollect their faces because she was so young when she became an orphan. After the death of her parents, her aunt raised Saritha with much affection and gave her an education with help from the Christian community. From the start of her education, Saritha stayed in a hostel, and could not concentrate on her studies due to health problems. She missed her parents. In the course of time, she passed her class examinations, but failed in the final examination of 12th class. Saritha stayed at home and could not take any decisions to plan her future, as there was no one to guide her. She remained in the state of a bird without a wings.
NGOs' Intervention**:
At this critical junction, GLOW circulated pamphlets in the community about the diploma in computer applications to help young Dalit women. This program was of great inspiration to Saritha to plan her future. She approached GLOW for guidance and help. After ascertaining the difficult realities that Saritha faced, GLOW advised her to undertake the computer education training. This will help her in facing the challenges of the future. Saritha joined the computer application course. She is also provided with food and accommodation at the cost of GLOW.
The computer course enables Saritha to gain knowledge in computer applications. On completion of six months in the course, Saritha feels more confident in taking self-decisions with her future. It has also enhanced her personality which will allow her to lead a good life with dignity. In her own words Saritha explains that GLOW has been supportive and helped her "with much affection" in planning her future.
* Written by Mr. Annadurai, Executive Director GLOW India.
**NGO (nongovenrnental organization)
Hear the voices of these young women.
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