Village Life #2 - Nilanthi

As we previously mentioned, there are two young girls in Samagama who are currently in the University. Pictured here with Donna is Nilanthi, an accounting student home for the month, before beginning her second year. During this month she has been taking an additional course in Galle four days a week.

When we first met Nilanthi, she and her brothers were studying in a small mud hut by candle light. Her father died when she was very young and her mother has worked very hard to give her the chance to get an education. Her mother recently was off work for a month due to an operation, so she told us she didn't have much money for food at school, so ended up skipping meals, in order to pay for her extra classes. It seems they all have to take additional classes outside the normal classroom setting.

During our time home we were able to find some additional monthly support for these two university girls, therefore when she returns she will have enough for her extra classes. She smiled and thanked us over and over for the monthly gift that will help these next two years. After she graduates she hopes to go abroad and find work to help support her brothers continue their education.

For her part in receiving this monthly stipend, she has agreed to give English lessons to the children of Samagama during her breaks while she is home. It is an inspiration to see her dedication to her school work and we look forward to seeing what God has in store for her in the years ahead. Thanks to many of you, this opportunity will be given to more children of Samagama in the years ahead!