A Hard Reality: Sushan’s Story

Only a few years ago, Sushan’s life changed suddenly when his father was involved in a serious car accident that left him almost completely disabled. Today, he depends on family members for everyday activities. In Nepal, there is no reliable insurance system to support families facing such circumstances, leaving Sushan’s household struggling to survive. The responsibility of providing for the family fell entirely on Sushan’s mother. She works as a daily wage laborer, taking whatever work, she can find just to make ends meet. Despite long hours of physically demanding work, she remains determined to keep her children in school. Sushan and his younger brother help with household chores as much as possible, but their mother insists that Sushan stay focused on his education. Supporting his studies has become her greatest priority. Born in the far-western region of Nepal, Sushan is currently a ninth-grade student. His school is a fifteen-minute walk from home, and he has never missed a single day of classes. Social studies is his favorite subject, and teachers describe him as attentive, disciplined, and eager to learn. Each evening before dinner, Sushan completes his homework independently. Since both of his parents are illiterate, there is no one at home to guide him academically — yet he continues to excel through determination and self-discipline.

At school, Sushan actively participates in quiz competitions and debates, activities that have helped him grow in confidence. He has a small but supportive group of friends and often notices that many classmates share similar economic hardships. Comparing experiences has helped him better understand the struggles of children growing up in poverty. The family’s financial challenges intensified after his father’s accident. Even before then, they were among the poorest families in their community. Sushan’s elder brother was forced to drop out of school when the family could no longer afford educational expenses. Although still underage, he now joins their mother in daily labor work whenever opportunities arise.

A Mother’s Sacrifice

There were times when Sushan doubted whether he would be able to complete high school. The rising cost of education made the future uncertain. Yet his mother continually reassured him that she would work harder if necessary to keep him in school. She is his greatest inspiration. Her resilience and quiet strength motivate him every day.

A Journey of Hope

Through a local organization, FEDO, Sushan learned about the Journey of Hope scholarship program. After a competitive selection process, he was chosen as a scholarship recipient — a moment that brought immense relief and happiness to his family. The scholarship covers essential educational expenses including school fees, stationery, clothing, shoes, and a school bag. For his mother, this support lifted a heavy financial burden. For Sushan, it provided something equally powerful: confidence. He explains that the scholarship has allowed him to focus fully on his studies and has given him renewed motivation to succeed. He is deeply grateful not only for the immediate assistance but also for the program’s commitment to supporting him through high school.

Sushan now dreams of completing college and becoming a professor. He believes education has the power to transform lives — including his own and those in his village. He says the profession is respected in his community and adds, “It will make my parents feel proud.”