"I am deeply grateful for being selected for IGOF 2024, as this opportunity holds immense significance for my family and me. My father has been borrowing money to pay for my tuition, and this scholarship will relieve a tremendous financial burden from his shoulders. It will enable me to concentrate fully on my studies without the constant worry of tuition fees and the cost of essential stationery items. This opportunity not only supports my academic journey but also brings immense relief and happiness to my father, who has been tirelessly supporting my education. I am truly thankful for this chance to excel and achieve my dreams without financial constraints" says Sabina Thami to NIWF team after her selection.

Sabina Thami is a 15 year old Indigenous Girl from Kalinchowk Rural Municipality Ward No.9 Dolakha district. She is currently studying in grade 8 at Shree Kalika Secondary School. She loves to cook for her father while he works in the fields. Her dream is to become a teacher inspired by the belief that education can transform lives and uplift her community. Sabina's family situation is challenging. Her mother is deaf and suffers from chronic illness, which prevents her from contributing to the labor-intensive work required in the fields. This puts additional pressure on the family, particularly on Sabina and her siblings. The family consists of seven members, but many of her siblings have moved away in search of better opportunities. Presently, Sabina lives with her parents, her elder sister, and her youngest sister.

Photo Description: Sabina Thami's home at Kalinchowk Rural Municipality at Ward No.9 in Dolakha District.

Economic hardship is a constant presence in their lives. Despite Sabina's determination to pursue her education, her younger sister is unable to do the same. Instead of attending school, she works in the fields of others, earning a meagre wage to help support the family. This situation underscores the difficult choices many families in their community face, where the immediate need to survive often takes precedence over long-term aspirations. Her father is highly supportive of her education. Sabina Thami emphasized that, despite their financial burdens, her father has even borrowed money to pay for her tuition, demonstrating his commitment to her future. So after a thorough interview process and careful assessment of their economic condition, the NIWF team selected Sabina Thami as the final candidate for IGOF 2024. This decision was made with the hope of providing meaningful assistance to her family and supporting Sabina's aspirations.

Photo Description: Sabina Thami receiving stationery items as the selected IGOF candidate from the Principal.

Indigenous Girls Opportunity Fund(IGOF) is an initiative taken by National Indigenous Women Forum(NIWF) in 2023 with the aim of ensuring equal access to education for Indigenous Girls. IGOF is dedicated to providing educational assistance and other necessary assistance to the scholarship recipient girls to support them academically. This fund provides educational aid to the selected student candidates from marginalised and endangered Indigenous Communities from economically disadvantaged backgrounds giving special emphasis in their empowerment through education. 

Photo Description: Sabina Thami with her Father

Photo Description: Sabina Thami's School at Kalinchowk Rural Municipality Ward No.9.