BRIDGING THE GAP

Ensuring access to education is essential to lay the foundation on which children of The families affected by Leprosy can build a better and more secure future. Often, due to discrimination and exclusion, children from these families are constrained by poor economic situation. They are unable to continue or pursue secondary and higher studies.

Further, in most of the cases, they are the first-generation learners, who do not get proper guidance from their families. Recognising a strong need for vocational training among the youth, S-ILF is supporting various educational activities to cater to the needs of children residing in Leprosy colonies.

OUR APPROACH

Since 2011, our programs have been designed to support first-generation learners, help them stay in school, and unlock pathways to higher education, healthcare professions, and employable skills. We work closely with families in leprosy colonies to understand their unique challenges and offer support that’s not just financial, but deeply personal.

• HHDL-S Scholarship

Named after His Holiness the Dalai Lama, this scholarship helps children complete secondary and senior secondary education—a crucial juncture where most students from leprosy colonies tend to drop out.

• S-ILF Nursing Scholarship

A flagship initiative supporting young girls to enter the nursing profession, one of the most respected, employable, and empowering career paths for women from underserved backgrounds.

• Vocational Skill Training

From tailoring to retail, IT to automobile repair, our vocational programs train young dropouts in practical, in-demand skills that offer immediate income opportunities and the confidence to dream bigger.

What these numbers mean for the future

These numbers aren’t just metrics, they’re milestones. 69% of the supported children have received some form of skill training, while 17% entered nursing programs, creating dignified livelihoods in healthcare. 14% stayed in school, thanks to academic scholarships.

But we’re not stopping here. S-ILF is now working to expand access through blended learning, integrate digital tools in vocational training, and forge stronger industry partnerships to ensure better placement outcomes. Real success isn’t just in completing education, but in what that education empowers them to do next.