Meghalaya: Lighting the path of hope and education for underprivileged children

CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: Just 15 kilometers away from Shillong lies Mawlong village, where a remarkable story unfolds every day. In the midst of despair and poverty, one woman, Shima Modak, is changing lives by bringing the gift of education to children who were once forgotten by society. These children, many of whom have endured physical abuse, social rejection, or a life of begging and rag-picking, now have hope—a brighter tomorrow—because of her tireless efforts.

Shima Modak, the founder of SPARK, has dedicated her life to uplifting underprivileged children. Every afternoon, she and her team step into slums and remote villages, not just to teach but to counsel and guide these young souls. They address the shadows of social evils that loom over their lives, offering an education that serves as a lifeline out of their dire circumstances.

“My model is simple — if children cannot attend school, we will bring the school to them. With this in mind, I started SPARK that runs schools for underprivileged children in five areas,” said Modak, a trained teacher. Her journey began in 2010 with a simple yet profound vision: education for all. Over the years, Shima has established five schools in areas like Mawlynrei Triashnong village, Mawlong village, Pongkung Mawphlang village, Rangmen Nongsder village, and Bara Bazaar slum. These schools cater to children who are cowherds, field labourers, rag-pickers, and even beggars—each one battling their own harsh reality. Yet within the walls of these modest classrooms, they discover hope and the possibility of a better life.

“Many ragpicking children, daily wage earners, beggars, physically abused children, many socially ostracized are supporting their families. Some have sick parents at home. So, we cannot ask them to stop work until we provide an alternative. However, we ensure that these children are not exploited at workplace,” asserted Modak.

Many of Shima’s students have transitioned from her schools to formal education, with some even achieving significant milestones. Yet, Shima remains grounded, walking for miles daily to ensure no child is left behind. Her humility is as inspiring as her mission, as she continues to bring smiles to the faces of children who once knew only suffering.

The challenges are immense. The schools, which typically run up to Class 8, face issues like overcrowded classrooms and limited resources. The realities of penury and neglect are ever-present. Yet, amidst it all, there’s an undeniable flicker of hope in the eyes of these children—a testament to Shima’s unyielding spirit and her unwavering belief in the transformative power of education.

Clad in her simple salwar-kameez, Shima is a ray of light for children living in darkness. When she enters the slums and villages, children flock to her—not just for lessons but for the warmth and guidance she provides. For many, SPARK is more than a school; it’s a sanctuary where dreams are nurtured, and lives are rebuilt.

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