“How do you chase big dreams when the rules of the game suddenly change?”
For these schoolgirls in Turtuk, Ladakh, this question isn’t just rhetorical—it’s their reality. After Article 370 was revoked and Ladakh became a Union Territory, their education system shifted from the simpler Jammu & Kashmir State Board to the more rigorous CBSE curriculum. The change hit hardest after their 10th grade, leaving them unprepared for the academic leap required to clear their 12th board exams.
A Struggle Against the Odds
Turtuk, with its breathtaking landscapes and resilient people, is also a place of educational roadblocks. Limited teachers, outdated textbooks, and societal pressures already made learning a challenge. Now, these girls must tackle a curriculum they weren’t trained for—without the resources their urban counterparts take for granted.
Why Internet Access is Critical
For Tasneem, Sana, and hundreds of others, the internet isn’t about entertainment—it’s about survival in an academic system that moved ahead while they were left behind.
- Bridging Knowledge Gaps: Online resources could help them grasp the tougher concepts CBSE demands.
- Self-Paced Learning: With limited teachers, digital platforms could provide personalized support.
- Competitive Exam Prep: Without coaching centers, internet access is their only shot at cracking entrance tests for higher education.
The Roadblock
Turtuk’s remote location means poor connectivity. Even where the internet exists, it’s unstable and out of reach for many families. Without intervention, these girls risk falling further behind, their dreams shrinking with each dropped connection.
The Future They Deserve
Turtuk’s girls are ready to take on the challenge—they just need the right tools. Access to the internet means access to information, mentorship, and opportunities that can help them compete on equal footing. It’s about equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to shape their own futures.
A connected Turtuk is a stronger Turtuk, where ambition meets opportunity and potential turns into achievement. The path forward is clear—let’s ensure these students have the resources they need to thrive, not just dream.