CHITWAN, Dec 23: Sarita Chepang of Rorang Rural Municipality-10 is now 20 years old. Most of the girls in her community have already got married. Attaining higher education is a far-fetched dream for girls of her community who get married even before appearing for the Secondary Education Examination (SEE).

Only four of her friends who belong to the so-called higher caste are pursuing their bachelor's degree. Sarita has three sisters and a brother. Impressed with her dedication to her studies, her parents always encouraged her to give continuity to education. She completed her primary level education from Chitrakala Primary School. Later, she went to Shree Rastriya Secondary School for secondary level education.

Her parents did not have to worry about managing two square meals as they grew enough crops and vegetables. She used to wake up early in the morning and gave a helping hand to her parents in the field before going to school. "I used to wake up before the sunrise to complete my homework and then used to assist my parents in the field," she said, adding, "After returning from school, I had to rush to collect fodder."

She always secured the first position in her class during school days. As a child, she always dreamt of becoming a doctor. Unfortunately, she had to give up her dream after her teacher said that being a doctor would cost a lot of money. She then decided to become a nurse. But that too was not easy as her parents clearly told that they would not be able to afford her fees. Later, she contacted a social organization named 'Hamile Nagare Kasle Garne?' 

This organization assured to provide her assistance for pursuing her nursing degree. With a heart full of dreams and dedication, she came to Chitwan for her education. 

"That was the first time I had visited Chitwan. I was amazed looking at the crowded city and was fearful of getting lost," she said. She often broke into tears missing her family.

Appearing for exams in the English language was a big challenge for her. She always shared her difficulties with Binodbabu Rijal, chairperson of the organization. 

"His motivation made me able to stay away from my family to chase my dreams," said Sarita.

She later managed to secure the 25th position in the scholarship test conducted by the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT). Not just that, she also passed the enrollment test of Bharatpur Medical College securing the third position. This year, she completed her nursing course and has also acquired her license.

Australia-based Chitwan Society, Victoria sent her tuition fees through Hamile Nagare Kasle Garne? 

The organization contributed Rs 240,000 for her three-year course. She has not just completed her education but has grown into a confident young woman. Now, when she goes to her village, everyone looks up to her with pride, especially the girls. She has set an example in her society.

 
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