In a landmark achievement for the Wanarmare, a subtribe of the Kathkari community, Ganesh Pawar has distinguished himself as the first student from Virnoda, Goa, to pass the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) Examination with a score of 44%, from Vikas High School, Valpem, Virnoda under the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education. This milestone is particularly momentous considering the persistent educational challenges that the Kathkari have faced.
Having been settled in Goa for over four decades, the Wanarmare community has endured marginalization, with minimal emphasis on education. Identified as one of India’s 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups, the Wanarmare need focused attention and support to overcome their socio-economic hurdles.
Significant strides have been made by the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, achieving complete school enrollment for children of this community. This effort is part of a broader initiative aimed at elevating the community through education, thereby disrupting the cycles of poverty and child marriage that have plagued their lives in some of the state’s most impoverished conditions.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunities that education has opened up for me. My journey through school was challenging, but it taught me that perseverance and support can change our destinies. This achievement is not mine alone; it belongs to my entire community. I hope my story will inspire other children from my community to pursue their dreams and believe in the possibility of a brighter future.”
– Ganesh Pawar
We are immensely proud of Ganesh’s accomplishment, which marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to ensure education for every child. His success reaffirms our belief that with the right support and opportunities, every child can overcome barriers and achieve their potential. This is a victory for Ganesh, a victory for the Kathkari community, and a victory for all of us who believe in the power of education to transform lives
– Peter F. Borges, Chairperson, Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights
Renowned for their expert archery and proud lineage tracing back to Eklavya, a revered figure in the Indian epic Mahabharata, the Wanarmare’s rich heritage and skills underscore their resilience and unique identity.
Ganesh’s success is not merely a personal triumph but a beacon of hope for the entire Kathkari community, demonstrating the transformative power of education.
