Afsana Apa’s Dream: From a Small Room to a School

[Sadia Jafrin]

In the Hijli Para of Byaspur village, our facilitators, Manira apa and Prokash bhai, led 3 group SALT sessions with around 25 men, women and adolescents almost 2 months ago. The majority of participants were women, and together, they began to address some of the challenges they face:

1. Children addicted to mobile phones
2. Children hooked on video games
3. A lack of educated teachers at home
4. Lack of unity among the community
5. No playgrounds for children to play

Something beautiful happened after the group SALT sessions. These women didn’t just talk about the problems; they took action. In two different places, they (Afsana apa and Moushumi took the lead) began addressing these issues on their own. Here’s how:

1. Mothers began teaching their children the traditional games of their own childhoods.
2. They used their home yards as makeshift playgrounds.
3. An adolescent girl and a housewife started teaching the children.
4. Grandparents began sharing stories with the children, connecting across generations.

Each group found its own way to act. But we felt there was more potential in bringing these groups together to share their experiences and learn from one another. So, we invited the parents and children to gather at Afsana apa’s house for a conversation.

It was a gloomy day. The sky was grey, and for the last three days, it had rained continuously. There was no electricity, but that didn’t stop us. When we arrived at Afsana apa’s house, we were surprised to see small children already there, their bags packed, ready to learn. Afsana apa and her mother-in-law were initially hesitant—they had no seating arrangements for everyone. They thought we would sit on a mat in the yard, but because of the rain, we gathered in their small room instead. Soon, more children and parents arrived. By the time we started, there were 23 children and 12 guardians, all sitting close together on the floor, bed, and near the windows and doors.

The first question we asked was, "Why did you take these actions?"
With a calm face, Afsana apa said that after participating in the SALT session with Manira apa and Prokash bhai, she began to reflect. She took responsibility for teaching the children and dedicated her small room so they could study together.

Our next question was for the other parents: "Why do you send your children?"
They smiled, happy and excited to share their thoughts. They told us that their children were now more focused on their studies and had reduced their time on mobile phones. The parents were proud, saying the children wanted to do better. They were so pleased with the progress that they wanted to continue these actions and even advocate for others to join.

We asked, "Have you noticed any changes in the children?"
Moushumi, the adolescent girl who teaches the children, shared that the children were now more committed. They come regularly to study and play together. Some even bring her chocolates and cards because they love her so much. Moushumi now teaches 10 students, and her parents are proud to see their daughter doing meaningful voluntary work.

Finally, we asked, "Through this experience, have you been inspired to do more?"
With a big smile, Afsana apa responded. She said she now feels powerful because the children in her neighborhood come to her, eager to study. They sit down, start their work, and only ask questions when they face challenges. She realized there’s something within her that allows her to manage the children in a special way, inspiring them to learn. Day by day, the number of children coming to study is increasing—now there are 16 regular students. She ended with a dream: "I think someday I can open a school. But I’m just a housewife, and I didn’t even complete my 12th grade. If you can help me become a better teacher, I will surely do it."

Her words filled me with hope. It reminded me of the extraordinary potential within our communities. We just have to ignite that strength, help people see their own abilities, and show them that they can achieve great things if they take responsibility with care and affection. And they can also learn from each other.

As we sat in that small room, surrounded by children and parents, I felt the energy of possibility. It rejuvenated me. I began to dream of Afsana apa teaching, surrounded by children filled with hope. I imagined that small room expanding, becoming wide and open—just like the limitless possibilities before us. I also sensed that their motivation level went high while they were listening to each other.

Together, we can turn these dreams into reality. The power lies within each of us.

[Shahrukh Atpade]

It's heartwarming to see how a small group can create such significant change. Afsana apa and the others exemplify the power of community empowerment...!