Joseph Pereira works with Delta Trust in North Bangladesh. His work with Delta Trust in North Bangladesh in areas such as Rangpur, Bogra and Sirajganj takes him to distant village areas, often on the banks or on the islands of Bangladesh’s huge rivers. In these areas, school availability is limited and literacy is low. Many children do not start school and among those who do, there is a 50% drop-out rate by Class 5. This is usually to do with the need for the children to earn money. The children come from a very poor environment and many of have been affected by floods during this year, and in many cases, their families have lost everything. Therefore, children have to drop out of school, or become involved in illegal child labour to earn some income for their families.

The vision is to set up more Village Primary School classes and sponsor the education of needy children. They are seeking to transform the lives of the poorest of the poor by breaking the bonds of illiteracy and the barriers to education and through this. Children who have had to drop out of education have hope, escape illegal child labour, and have their future opportunities restored.

Financial breakdown

Ray of Hope would like to raise US$4,200 (S$5,670) to help support a single Primary School class for one year. The breakdown of the cost is as follows:

Rent – US$168 per year

Teacher allowance – US$714 per year

Supervisor allowance – US$756 per year

Student material – US$1,512 per year

Administration – US$1,050 per year