KATARINA  was eleven years old in 2014, when she was forced to drop out of school. Her parents could no longer afford to pay school fees for all of their children. In kahe , traditionally, boys’ education is the priority. She recalls, “I was getting ready for school as normal. Then my mother told me that I would not be going; only my brothers can go to school”. This is her story.

KATARINA’s father – a farmer – had fallen ill and was no longer able to work. The family had no source of income and sacrifices had to be made. Her five brothers remained in school. The girl’s education was sacrificed. She was obliged to stay at home to run the house and nurse her father – simply because she was a girl.(we will publish her story on our website -www.tareo-tz.org)

Two years after her parents removed her from school, she managed to return to the classroom. This happened as a result of her meeting with a social worker from TAREO and Majengo Kids and youth Technology school who quickly identified the various needs of the family. Practical support including psychosocial counselling was provided.
KATARINA’s brother was employed in maize mill mill mashine donated ny Kilitech (www.kilitech.org)  encouraged to return and become the family breadwinner through the provision of a business setup grant. His wok  now generates enough income to support the family. This has ensured that the boys and the Katarina  can attend school.