Skip to main content
Magnifier icon Magnifier icon

Menu

About EAA

Opening up a world of education

Children love to learn. If they are denied access to knowledge, we also deny them the opportunity to change their lives for the better.

Close

Saddam: Passionate about Education's Transformative Power

Calendar icon

In the tranquil foothills of the Himalayas, amidst the whispering pines and the gentle murmur of mountain streams, resides a young soul named Saddam. Born into the Van Gujjar community, Saddam stands as a beacon of hope and education—a rare gem among his peers who has shattered barriers to achieve academic success.

From a tender age, Saddam's thirst for knowledge burned brightly. While many of his friends were shepherding livestock or assisting their families, Saddam was determined to carve a different path. His mornings began not with the rising sun but with the glow of a kerosene lamp, as he pored over textbooks under the watchful gaze of starlit skies. His dedication did not go unnoticed. Elders in his community, accustomed to tales of struggle and perseverance, saw in Saddam a promising future.

Completing his graduation was not merely a personal triumph but a watershed moment for the entire Van Gujjar community. Saddam became a role model, revered for his intellect and resilience. His journey from a humble nomadic existence to the halls of academia inspired a generation, proving that with determination and support, dreams could transcend the boundaries of tradition.

Saddam preparing a lesson plan for his students

Passionate about education's transformative power, Saddam didn't rest on his laurels. He embraced the role of an educator and mentor, guiding young minds eager to follow in his footsteps. Recognizing the pivotal role of girls' education in community upliftment, he championed the cause tirelessly. In the heart of the forest, under the canopy of ancient trees, Saddam set up impromptu classrooms where boys and girls alike gathered to learn, their laughter mingling with the rustling leaves.

Understanding the systemic hurdles faced by his community, Saddam took proactive measures. He organized Aadhar card camps, ensuring that every child had the necessary documentation for school admission. For those who had been denied education due to bureaucratic red tape, Saddam's camps were a lifeline—a testament to his commitment to equity and access.

But Saddam's vision extended beyond immediate challenges. He envisioned a future where education would not only liberate minds but also empower communities to forge their own destinies. His initiatives weren't just about filling minds with knowledge but nurturing hearts with resilience and hope.

In the twilight of each day, as the sun dipped behind the mountains and shadows lengthened, Saddam would sit by the fire, sharing stories of courage and perseverance with the next generation. His eyes would sparkle with pride, not for his own accomplishments, but for the budding potential he saw in each child's eager gaze.

Saddam's journey is a testament to the indomitable spirit that thrives in the face of adversity. In a world where challenges often seem insurmountable, he stands tall—a shepherd of dreams, a custodian of knowledge, and a guiding light for the Van Gujjar community. And as the stars emerge in the velvety night sky, casting their silent blessings upon the forest, Saddam's legacy continues to unfold—a tale of courage, compassion, and the enduring power of education to illuminate even the darkest paths.

Few words from Saddam; “PBL ने मुझे बहुत सिखाया है. हर सेशन से पहले मैं खुद बहुत तैयारी कर के जाता था. सभी गतिविधियों को अच्छे से पढ़ता था और फिर अपने साथियों के साथ चर्चा भी करता था. मुझे PBL की सबसे अच्छी बात यही लगी की इसमें कोई भी महंगा TLM नही लगता. हमारे संदर्भ में जो चीजें उपलब्ध है वही क्लास में लेकर जाना है. ऐसा करने से बच्चों में भी मैने बहुत उत्साह देखा. बच्चे जब मेरा इंतजार करते थे और पूछते थे की आज क्या होगा क्लास में, ये देखकर मुझे बहुत एनर्जी मिलती है. मैं PBL अपने बच्चो के साथ भी करता हूं घर पर. PBL के माध्यम से मैने एक्टिविटी बनाना और बच्चो को समझना सीखा.”

Impact

"Humanity will not overcome the immense challenges we face unless we ensure that children get the quality education that equips them to play their part in the modern world." -- HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser

Surpassing

19 million

beneficiaries across all programmes of Education Above All Foundation

10,687

Scholarships

90%

retention rate

2.6 million+

Skills training provided to teachers, school staff, and community members

1 million+

Youth Empowered