Dina (pseudonym) is a 16-year-old girl who lives in Ek Phnom district with her grandmother and three siblings since her parents migrated to Thailand for work and have not been able to return home. Dina is currently studying in Grade 9, but when she first started secondary school in Grade 7, she had frequent attendance problems. She often missed school because she did not have a clear plan for her future, and there was no one in her family to support or encourage her education. The family’s difficult situation also made it hard for her to stay motivated.
To address this, the Education Advocacy (EA) team worked closely with Dina and her grandmother to help her stay in school. They provided continuous guidance, encouragement, and counseling, helping her understand the importance of education and supporting her in setting goals for her future. CFI also supported Dina by providing a school uniform, school supplies, and a bicycle to make it easier for her to attend school. The EA team regularly follows up by visiting her at school and offering educational counseling, including discussions about her goals and the benefits of continuing her education.
After more than two years of support, Dina has shown clear improvement. Her attendance has significantly improved, especially during her Grade 9 academic year. Although she still struggles with some subjects, which can sometimes make her feel discouraged, she has developed a strong commitment to continue her studies. Dina shared, “Even though I am not good at many subjects at school, I will continue my education. I want to finish Grade 9 and continue through Grade 12, then go to university. In the future, I want to be a police officer because I want to help my community. Thank you to CFI for the support that is changing my life.”