Rising above barriers in the heart of Idukki

Anjana Anish's journey from the Mannan tribal settlement in the remote village of Kuthirayila, located in the Adimaly Block of Idukki District, Kerala, is an inspiring story of resilience, confidence and determination. Initially a timid and shy girl, Anjana attended the Government High School Mannamkandam, a tribal school. Born to Bindhu and Anish, who work as coolies, Anjana faced economic challenges and limited access to resources and opportunities.

In many tribal settlements, including Kuthirayila, the lack of facilities for higher education significantly hampers the prospects of higher education for tribal girls. Educational resources and infrastructure beyond the primary and secondary levels are scarce, making it challenging for girls to continue their studies. Parental reluctance also plays a role, as many parents are hesitant to send their adolescents, particularly girls, outside the settlement for further studies due to safety concerns and cultural traditions. Additionally, there is a general lack of encouragement and guidance for girls in these communities, with limited awareness and education about personal hygiene, which is crucial for their overall well-being and confidence. Many adolescents in these tribal areas are also shy and hesitant to speak up, resulting in a lack of confidence that makes it difficult for them to pursue opportunities and assert themselves in educational and social settings.

The turning point in Anjana’s life came when she participated in the life skills sessions conducted by Magic Bus India Foundation at her school. These sessions helped her develop self-management and improve her communication skills. This improvement enabled her to express her needs, seek help when necessary, and build supportive relationships with her trainers and peers. These life skills boosted her confidence, hope, and resilience, equipping her to become more vocal at school. Over time, Anjana not only started attending school regularly but also developed an interest in sports, which was identified by Magic Bus trainers.

In her school, where there was no physical education teacher, staff secretary Anoop stepped in to provide coaching. Later, the Magic Bus India Foundation staff, including academic educator Sibi C.S. and life skills educator Akash Soman, further nurtured her talent through coaching and guidance. Recognising the need for additional resources, they requested assistance from Mr. Surendran, the PT teacher from Adimaly Government School. Mr. Surendran's visit, prompted by the advocacy of the Magic Bus staff, brought enhanced training and resources to Anjana's school. His involvement not only benefited Anjana but also sparked positive change within the tribal school, illustrating the transformative power of collaboration and community support.

Their collective efforts bore fruit when Anjana competed in the district-level discus throw competition. Her talent shone brightly as she secured the second prize, a testament to her hard work and determination. This victory qualified her to compete at the state level, marking a significant milestone in her journey.

Currently a 10th-grade student at the Government High School Mannamkandam, Anjana continues her education while nurturing her athletic talents. Learning these life skills has helped Anjana stay resilient, self-reliant, and focused paving the way for a brighter future for herself and her community.

Magic Bus India Foundation, with its extensive presence in such remote areas, plays a crucial role in transforming lives. By reaching out to underserved communities, the organisation ensures that even adolescents in the most remote regions receive support and guidance to not just complete their education but to fulfill their dreams.