At 22.2%, Karnataka's secondary level school dropout rate is above the national average. This startling figure for Classes 9 and 10 in 2023–24 places the state among the highest in the country.

But numbers alone don't tell the whole story. Behind every statistic is a child—often at a crossroads, facing difficult choices.

This week, through Sankalpa For Change, we held a life skills session with students from Classes 8 and 9, asking some essential questions:

What followed was a moving, real conversation. Students shared their dreams, their doubts, and even quotes that inspired them.

One student quietly said: "The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet."

A powerful reminder that while the journey may be tough, what lies ahead is worth it.

Another shift happened toward the end of the session. A deeper realisation took root in the room — "Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself."

We closed with the reminder that knowledge is a treasure no one can steal.

And for many in the room, school began to feel not like a burden — but like a bridge.

𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝗮𝘆 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴. 𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗮 𝘀𝗲𝗲𝗱. A seed of self-worth, possibility, and hope.