Success Story

Photographer: WFP

Asha Dash studying.

"WFP’s fortified biscuits are one reason why she has been able to come to school." Her father says.

For ten-year old Asha Dash, being able to go to school is very special indeed. Asha’s mother died a few years ago and now she must take care of all the household duties on her own, while her father works hard as a rickshaw puller in their village.

Asha has three brothers, two of whom live with her, so she must also take care of them, as well as her father, cooking all their meals, and taking care of all the cleaning and washing.

Despite these responsibilities, Asha is keen to come to school to gain an education. And WFP’s fortified biscuits are one reason why she has been able to come to school.

Her father realises that the biscuits provide her with added nutrients and calories and will improve her health. He also wants his daughter to do well in school and go to high school – if money permits.

“I really want to go to high school. It is up to my father. I really would love to keep studying, but money is difficult,” explains Asha.

For now, Asha is happy that she is able to attend primary school – something that might not have been possible if the WFP biscuits were not provided.

Asha, who is in class 4 at Nirarshi Primary School in Atwari, Panchagarh, admires her teachers and one day she herself would like to become a teacher.

Usually before shcool, she only takes a small dish of puffed rice and water - not enough to last her during the day. Most days she doesn’t take lunch. "This biscuits give me energy and take away my hunger," says Asha.