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Empowered by Education: Driving towards Progress

Education has the power to change lives and build empowered communities. One inspiring example is Ms. Prabhavathi Vaithiyanathan, a dedicated young woman from Vairankuppam Colony, Cuddalore. Growing up in a family that faced financial difficulties, she has experienced it first-hand as to how children in her village struggled to get proper learning support and personal attention in their education.

After completing her Diploma in Teacher Training, she started teaching at a private school in a nearby village. While she enjoyed teaching at the school, she also wanted to help the children in her own village. Many of them returned home from school with doubts, lacked confidence and were slowly losing interest in studies. Prabhavathi wanted to change this.

Three women leaders from a rural Self‑Help Group in Gujarat

TCSRD Intervention

Village Learning Centre (VLC)

In 2019, she found the right opportunity when she came to know about the Village Learning Centre (VLC) initiative supported by TCSRD. She joined as a VLC volunteer with determination and enthusiasm to make a difference in her village.

The VLC provides after-school support for students from rural areas. Prabhavathi created a friendly and welcoming environment where students could freely ask questions, clear their doubts, and strengthen their basic learning. She used fun and engaging methods like storytelling, drawing and educational games to make learning joyful and easy.

Over time, her efforts brought visible changes. Children who were once shy and silent became more confident and active in class and their academic performance also started improving.

Parmaben knitting a product made by her SHG

Outcome

TCSRD continues to support Prabhvati for playing an enabling role by providing her guidance and resources. This support gave her the confidence and stability to fully focus on her mission without worrying about financial pressures. With her dedication, the VLC in her village has now become a vibrant learning space where children are encouraged, supported and guided with care.

Prabhavathi’s transformation from a teacher to a true change maker reflects the goal of TCSRD to empower people from within the community to uplift others around them. As she continues to inspire and lead the way for the next generation in her village, her story proves that with the right support and dedication, a person can bring about meaningful change.

As she says through her work, "Education is the first step toward building a better world and change begins at home."

Case Studies

Economic independence and the rise of women in rural Gujarat

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Education. Empowerment. Progress

Education drives progress, first of a community, then society, and gradually solidifies the entire nation. That's the power of education! One such inspiring example is Prabhavathi Vaithiyanathan, a young woman from Vairankuppam Colony, who has become a shining hope for students in her village.

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