Pic: Hemanath Padubidri
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Apr 3: Iqra, a social service organization based at Padubidri in the taluk, has lent a helping hand to nine youngsters to appear for SSLC examination this year. They had been unable to continue their education because of adverse family circumstances.

Rafiq from Padubidri, who started to work for a footwear store after attending classes till the eighth standard, is feeling proud that he is appearing for the SSLC examination. There is spark in his eyes, as he dreams of continuing with his education and brighten up the future of himself and his family. He says he is thankful to Iqra for making this possible. “Of course, I did not know the value of education while in school. I whiled away time, playing. Now I know that being educated helps one to become a better citizen,” he admits candidly.

Shariff, who stopped going to school two years back, was inspired in Iqra to appear for SSLC examination. “No one encouraged me to study further, but Iqra did. I now want to finish my PUC and become an engineer,” he says enthusiastically.

Nine youngsters have now become able to fulfill their dreams to appear for SSLC examination this time because of the encouragement and inspiration provided by Iqra. Ahmed Ashfaq of the organization says that the organization tries to bring those who have left school for different reasons, to the mainstream. “The organization conducts survey, and makes such people aware of the value of completing education. It also organizes tuition classes for them, meets their examination fees, and prepares them to face this examination,” he explains.

Out of the 14 persons the organization trained, nine persons, Siraj, Sharif, Rafiq, Mustaq, Fayaz, Hanif, Inzamam, Asif and Sirajuddin are appearing for SSLC examination. The organization wants everyone, without reference to their religion, caste or creed, to become educated. Ahmed Ashfaq draws the support of Shariff, Ismail Ayaz and Hamid in this task.