(Payakaraopeta) — Children in the rural villages of Payakaraopeta, in Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh, India, grow up in extremely challenging social and family circumstances. In practice, the provision of government schools in these villages amounts to little more than a formality. A single teacher is usually responsible for teaching all five years of primary school. This severely affects the quality of teaching and children’s learning, leaving many unable to read or write properly even by the time they reach Year 5.
To help build a better future for these children, Sister Thankam John has established seven evening study centres in seven villages. Together, they now support 300 boys and girls, assisted by 12 teachers.
The aim is to provide each child with a complete set of learning materials — pens, pencils, colouring supplies, exercise books and rulers — as well as biscuits and chocolate distributed at every session. Trained teachers work alongside the children, helping them catch up in subjects they find difficult, complete their homework and develop the motivation to study and keep improving. Day by day, month by month, the children can continue to develop their literacy skills and grow as individuals.
