Dare To Learn

Education is a fundamental right. But so many among us are deprived of it especially girls because of social taboos. The reasons range from child marriage to superstitious beliefs to familial pressure to being labelled as a threat to the society.

‘Malala Fund’ aims to provide education to hundreds of girls who do not have access to basic necessities. Its initiative called ‘Assembly’ provides a platform for brave women to voice their stories and inspire many girls around the world.

These girls come from different backgrounds but a common thread that connects them is their fight against injustice, oppression, inequality and poverty.
They stood their ground against the society assisted by a supportive family member.

‘Dare to Learn’ documents the journey of 25 exceptionally talented girls who have excelled to secure a bright future for themselves through education. They bravely fought against societal miscreants and stood up for themselves when the need arrived.

Vandana Bharti was forced to drop out of school due to dire poverty in her family. She signed a petition to urge Union Ministers to extend the Right to Education Act of 2009 to allow free access to education up to higher secondary level.

Nibras Basitkey from Iraq felt like a refugee in her own village when ISIS invaded Mosul which was just half an hour from their home. With a vivid memory, she recounts the horror of infiltrating into the enemy’s territory just to have her transcript signed so that she could flee to the US for seeking higher education.

“Your strength might be hiding under your anxiety and insecurities, but it’s there. You just need to find it”

It was heartening to read a story of a girl from Canada who overcame her fear and anxiety of school owing to a learning disability called ADHD.

Anjeli’s home was marred with illiteracy and poverty but her elder sister and mother strived to make her educated.

These deeply personal essays make you ponder over your privileges and feel grateful for the life you live. I shuddered when they described the horror of living in the terrorist’s lane. I realized how important it is to read non-fiction, to educate ourselves on world issues whilst reading this book.