DEAR READER

Access to education is not only a fundamental right, but also central to healthy human development and to a society based on responsible participation and active sharing. In the same way, a good education is key to breaking the poverty cycle and opening doors to a better future.

For many children, the significance of attending school goes far beyond learning. At school, they receive a meal, have a safe place to play and study, and are supported in developing their talents and pursuing their dreams.

The corona virus has turned people’s lives upside down all over the world and led to school closures in heretofore unimaginable and unprecedented proportions. Worldwide, the pandemic threatens to create an educational gap which will have a devastating effect, especially on children from poorer and educationally disadvantaged families. This raises the question: what type of educational system do we need in order to address the longer-term impact of the pandemic on society? How can we ensure that disadvantaged children and young people are not left behind and have better opportunities for a good education?

For 45 years, the Usthi Foundation has been working to ensure equitable access to education and health care. In 2021, together with our partner organisations in India and Nepal, we have adapted the projects to fit the new reality defined by the virus, to turn challenges into opportunities. Our vision of a world in which all children grow up with dignity and become self-reliant and independent remains unchanged.

We wish to continue on this path together with you and invite you to read on and immerse yourself in our work. On behalf of the children, the many young women and men in our projects, we once again sincerely wish to thank you for all your generous donations and your valuable support, on which we have been able to count for so many years.