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Aiesha's Story Aiesha is the fourth child of a very poor family of eleven, living in the village Ghaghas. Like her parents, she had never been to school until she joined the Foundation's Family Life Education classes, where she learned to read and write fluently. She was an enthusiastic learner and stood first in class; as part of the course she also learned tailoring within a short period and started to stitch clothes for herself and her family. When Aiesha was sixteen, her father Aliser, decided to get her married to a young man from a nearby village with the typical notion that their daughter will have a better life living with a 'well-to-do' family. Though Aiesha was keen on pursuing her studies and stitching; and against stepping into marriage, her parents ignored her dreams and got her married. Within two weeks of her marriage her young life was in distress; she came to know that her husband was mentally sick; he used to get violent for petty issues and abuse her physically. Her father-in-law, a pervert often misbehaved with her. Aiesha was sent back to her parents' house when she started complaining to her husband about her father-in-law's behavior. Aiesha was happy to be home with her family and refused to go back. She decided to stay by her mother and help her in bringing up the younger siblings and use her sewing skills to earn extra income for the family. After meeting with the boy's parents a few times and understanding their attitude, Aiesha's parents agreed to her decision; especially her mother Aliman, stood by her. Now, Aiesha works as a substitute instructor in the FLE center and stitches clothes for the villagers; the Foundation also assisted her by buying an embroidery machine. She has a bank account and earns Rs.1500/- per month on an average. Aiesha is still keen on pursuing her studies and is going to join fifth grade in the government school. his small protest against ancient and rigid social structure is not, however, a victory for Aiesha. She is prevented by Muslim law from re-marrying but Aiesha is content being independent and able to follow her dreams; and to be safe at home among her people. For further information please contact: Pooja O Murada
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