For Ravathy, mum of 10-year-old Kavinesh, the HOPE foundation School in Pudupattinam is more than just a school – it is the place where her son not only dreams but also lays a foundation for his dreams to be fulfilled.  

Ravathy knows firsthand the importance of having an education, as she and her husband Mahaveeran weren’t able to finish their own education due to material poverty. However, thanks to the school’s generous supporters, Ravathy and Mahaveeran no longer worry about choosing between their children’s education and managing daily expenses. The HOPE foundation School in Pudupattinam, in partnership with HOPE worldwide UK, provides a low-cost, high-quality education to 215 students from the area, with free education provided to orphans, semi-orphans, and children whose parents are undergoing long-term medical treatment. 

We sat down with Ravathy and Kavinesh to hear how education, once out of reach, has reshaped their hopes for the future.

In their own words

Ravathy: “My husband and I never had the chance to complete our schooling due to our family’s financial struggles. Growing up in poverty, our dream was to give our children a quality education, but we weren’t sure how we’d make it happen. That’s when the HOPE foundation School stepped in and offered our children an incredible opportunity. 

One thing that brings me immense joy is seeing the positive impact the HOPE foundation School has had on my son’s character. Compared to other children in our village, I can clearly see that the school has not only provided him with a quality education but also instilled in him good values and behaviour.  

Now, we’re confident that our children will excel in their education and succeed in life. We’re deeply grateful to the HOPE foundation School for giving him a chance to thrive.” 

Kavinesh: “Hi, I’m Kavinesh. I am 10 years old, and I’m in the 5th grade. I’ve been at the HOPE foundation School since I was 3! I love my school, friends, and teachers. They’re like family to me – the teachers even have lunch with us! Besides studies, I like drawing and joining competitions, I’ve won lots of awards. My dream is to become a pilot, and my teachers have been super supportive. They have encouraged me to follow my dream, and they all take good care of me. If I leave this school, I will miss it a lot, because I don’t know when I’ll see my friends and teachers again.“