In Nepal, millions of girls face the threat of early marriage, with 1.3 million married before age 15. Education for girls in underserved communities, such as the Musahar, Dalit, and religious minorities in Madhesh and Lumbini provinces, is not only a path to learning but a critical safeguard against child marriage. Programs like UDAAN, CARE’s education initiative for girls aged 10 to 14 who have never attended school or dropped out early, provide a second chance to join formal education while equipping girls with leadership, life skills, and practical support to delay or avoid early marriage.
Radhika Yadav, a twelve-year-old participant, benefited from UDAAN by regaining confidence, building friendships, and reigniting her enthusiasm for learning. However, abrupt funding cuts forced the program to close, putting 307 girls like Radhika at risk of losing their education and increasing their vulnerability to early marriage and other dangers. Her mother highlighted the impact of the closure, emphasizing the loss of skills, confidence, and protection the program had provided.
Early marriage and school dropout carry severe consequences in Nepal. Girls who leave school face higher risks of sexual and physical violence, early pregnancy, and serious health complications such as obstetric fistulas and maternal mortality. Economic hardship and socio-cultural pressures further compound the problem, particularly for families in disadvantaged communities, where boys’ education often takes priority. Without sustained support, girls are at risk of exploitation, trafficking, and forced labor.
Following the sudden closure of UDAAN, CARE mobilized emergency measures, reopening centers temporarily with short-term funding. Radhika returned to the program, completed the curriculum, and transitioned into Grade 6 at a formal school with tailored support from teachers and her family. This included provision of school supplies, uniforms, and hygiene materials, along with personalized attention to her learning needs and household encouragement to continue her education.
CARE also facilitated community sessions aimed at changing entrenched attitudes toward girls’ education and early marriage. These discussions allowed parents and community members to recognize the potential of their daughters and to challenge traditional norms, combining material support with social transformation to create lasting change.
The UDAAN closure reflects a broader global aid crisis, with major funding cuts affecting numerous programs in Nepal and beyond. The suspension of programs supporting adolescent girls has heightened risks of school dropout, child marriage, early pregnancy, and gender-based violence. Emergency interventions helped 282 of 307 girls resume education, but the solution remains fragile, dependent on temporary funding rather than long-term investment.
Radhika’s story underscores both the urgency and the possibility of protecting girls through education. Sustained funding and policy support are essential to prevent the reversal of progress in girls’ empowerment, safety, and education, ensuring that programs like UDAAN can continue turning hope into tangible opportunity.
