Meet Manju

Manju’s parents didn’t consider educating girls to be important and kept her home for many years to help work in the fields. But when relatives recommended the Barli Institute in 2016, they decided to send Manju there for a six-month course.

Manju was a fast learner. While at Barli, she learned cutting, tailoring and to read, write, and do basic math. After completing her training, Manju returned to her village with the dream of establishing her own tailoring shop.

Though her parents insisted she get married right away, Manju did not give up her dreams. She convinced her new in-laws and husband to buy her a sewing machine, began earning money as a tailor, and became well known for her honesty and punctual work. With savings from her profits, she even enabled her husband to open a small general store!

Her strong determination to pursue her dreams has inspired several other girls to attend Barli. When Manju learns about a girl who has left school, she considers it her duty to visit that girl’s home and explain the importance of education to her parents.

Manju’s husband is supportive of his wife’s efforts and admires her achievements. He says:

“If a family is to be happy, it is of utmost importance that the women in the family be given respect and equal treatment.”