Impact and Influence of Teachers on the Lives of Migrant Children

Abstract

Millions of Indians migrate from their homeland either lured by better prospects or just to survive the subsistence crisis. Poverty, lack of employment, dismal state of the economy, lack of opportunity, depletion of natural resources, occurrence of natural disasters, lack of cultivable land and low agricultural output are some of the ‘push factors’ from the place of origin. ‘Pull factors’, such as better employment options, higher earning facilities, and better working conditions, draw migrants to a new destination like the metropolitan cities. Education of the children of these migrant workers is severely compromised in this movement. The present education system of India is largely suitable for the settled population and does not cater to the underprivileged migrant children. Language, caste, religion and grade appropriate age are some of the other impediments faced by these children to acquire education. Civil Society Organizations and Non-Government Organizations run schools or day-care facilities to ensure continuity in their education. The teachers working with the children in these schools play an important role at the grassroot level to bridge the gaps in their learning. They provide them with a safe space to receive education. This paper highlights the challenges faced by these teachers and the possible reasons behind these difficulties. It also focusses on the opportunities created by the NGOs and CSOs to empower these teachers to provide a better environment for teaching and learning. Multiple perspectives from both teachers and CSO management representatives have been incorporated. It enriches the data triangulation by including diverse viewpoints and experiences. Quantitative data was gathered through questionnaires, and qualitative insights were obtained through interviews. CSOs and their dedicated team of teachers play a crucial role in providing education to children from migrant families, by raising the standard of primary education and provide an inclusive environment.