Nitu’s Journey from Early Marriage to Education
Nitu Kumari Paswan, an 18-year-old from Sonama Rural Municipality Ward 4, Mahottari, belongs to the Dalit community, a segment of society often marginalized. Her family has faced significant financial hardships: her elder brother has migrated for foreign employment, and her parents work as laborers. These challenges led to Nitu dropping out of school in grade 8. Her future seemed set towards early marriage, a common fate for many girls in her community. However, thanks to the intervention of USAID Adolescent Reproductive Health (ARH) and the dedication of her sister-in-law, Sanjida Kumari Paswan, Nitu’s story took a different turn.
Sanjida, herself a school dropout after grade 2, is an active member of the “Young Mother Group,” a Social Awareness and Action (SAA) Group. Through regular SAA sessions, Sanjida’s perspective on early marriage transformed. Reflecting on her own experiences with early marriage and pregnancy, she became acutely aware of the negative consequences it brings.
When Nitu’s marriage was nearly arranged, Sanjida took a bold stand against it. She spoke to Nitu’s parents, urging them to reconsider and emphasizing the importance of education and the detrimental effects of early marriage. Despite her efforts, Nitu’s parents initially did not agree.
Determined to prevent Nitu from facing the same challenges she did, Sanjida discussed the issue during an SAA session. This prompted ARH & GESI Officers and an ARH Facilitator to intervene. They met with Nitu’s parents, explaining the severe consequences of early marriage and the critical importance of education for Nitu’s future. In addition, Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs) were enlisted to support the cause. Together, they made frequent home visits to Nitu’s parents, persistently advocating for Nitu’s right to education.
After sustained efforts and multiple discussions, Nitu’s parents finally agreed to call off the wedding. The collective advocacy and support from the ARH team, SAA group members, and FCHVs made a significant impact.
Nitu’s parents not only decided against early marriage but also joined the Influencers SAA Group in their community. They have now committed to supporting Nitu’s higher education, recognizing the value it holds for her future.
Nitu Kumari Paswan’s story is a powerful example of how community support and education can alter the course of a young girl’s life. The USAID ARH, through its strategic interventions and the dedication of community members like Sanjida, successfully prevented an early marriage and paved the way for Nitu’s continued education. This impact story highlights the importance of collective efforts in challenging harmful traditions and empowering young girls to achieve their potential.
