Inequalities are reinforced by crisis situations. After two difficult years, most people in Switzerland are returning to a normal life. In poorer countries like Nepal or India, the consequences of the current situation are much more evident.

According to a newly published report, the World Bank estimates that up to 56 million people in India have slipped into poverty due to the pandemic. The Indian government states that around 10,000 children have been fully orphaned. In the states of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Odisha, particularly many children lost both their parents. Many of them are left to fend for themselves.

In addition, a report on learning poverty paints a picture of the current global situation on education. It estimates that learning poverty in South Asia has increased by about 20% since 2019.

Providing children and young people with access to education in order to create new perspectives for them is thus particularly important today.

Usthi’s professional skills trainings support young people like Mani to build a self-determined future.

“Thanks to my education, I have a job that allows me to stand on my own feet and support my family. It also makes me confident to be able to pursue a higher education.”
Mani Kumar, Graduate of the Lab Technician Course

In this interview, Mani tells his story – what made him take a medical course, what he has learnt and the impact his education has had on his life.