How Mamta soared after a decade away from school

For nearly ten years, Mamta kept her dreams to herself. She dropped out of school after Grade 8, not because she lacked ambition, but because the long walk, the harsh desert heat and growing responsibilities at home made it impossible to continue.

Finding a way back to learning

In 2024, Mamta learnt about the Educate Girls’ Pragati program. Pragati supports adolescent girls and young women who had to pause their education and now want to complete Grade 10 through open schooling. 

With encouragement from her mentor, Prerak Teja Ram Ji, she decided to give herself this second chance after nearly a decade away from textbooks.

Returning to studies was not easy. She had to rebuild her confidence, create a routine and stay focused, but she kept going.

A result that changed perceptions

Her effort paid off. Mamta passed the Rajasthan State Open School Grade 10 exams with 85 per cent. She ranked second among all girls and third overall in the state. Her achievement inspired her family, her neighbours and many who had once questioned the value of girls’ education.

What Mamta’s success represents

Today, Mamta dreams of becoming a teacher. Her journey and the result gave her the confidence to dream bigger about her future and showed her community what determination can look like. Her journey now reflects a simple truth: when girls have the opportunity to educate themselves, they can move forward on their own terms.