Small Lessons, Big Dreams
Chanchal Mathur is 25 years old and lives in Gurugram as a housewife, caring for her two sons, Manvic, aged five, and Gyanshu, aged three.
Her family moved to Gurugram from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, because of her husband’s work. He completed his Year 12 education there and now works as a delivery rider for different companies. Each day, he leaves on his motorbike at 6 am and returns late in the afternoon.
“With him away most of the day, I take care of everything at home,” Chanchal explains.
She was eager to enrol her sons in Humana’s PoF Programme, especially because it is free and her children are still too young for Government school. However, when she first visited the office, she was told that the boys could not be registered without proper identity documents.
“I felt worried,” she recalls. “I did not know how to complete the process.”
Khakan, the Samarth and Computer teacher, stepped in to help. He accompanied the family to the administrative office and supported them in obtaining the necessary documents. Although he is not a PoF teacher, the boys know him well, and Chanchal remains deeply grateful for his support.
Since joining the PoF programme, Chanchal has seen remarkable changes in Manvic. “I do not always have time to teach both my sons at home,” she admits, “but now Manvic comes back with so much practical knowledge.”
It is not only about new words or numbers. He now says “Good morning” at home, knows how to tie his shoes, and brushes his teeth properly. “He is learning faster than I expected,” she says proudly. “He asks questions, uses his imagination, and even teaches his little brother.”
Every day, Manvic eagerly prepares to leave for class. “He waits for the time to go,” Chanchal smiles. “That tells me he truly loves it.”
She appreciates the teaching approach and the encouragement her son receives. Inspired by the programme, she now attends parent–teacher meetings and health awareness sessions.
“I feel part of a community,” she says. “I have met other families and made friends.”
For Chanchal, the programme has not only opened doors for her children but also for herself. “I hope one day I can use this motivation to learn more, maybe even work and support my husband,” she reflects. “For now, I am happy seeing my sons grow with confidence.”
Through her children’s education, Chanchal’s own sense of possibility is beginning to grow as well.
