In the remote hills of Meghalaya, Genavafa Behphat turned her personal struggles with education into a beacon of hope for the children in her village. With the establishment of Dew Drop Academy in 2019, she created a learning environment where students from marginalized communities could gain quality education, overcoming the same language barriers she once faced. Located in Nongshken, a village bordering Bangladesh, Dew Drop Academy has become a transformative force, giving local children the tools to achieve their dreams.
The Struggles that Led to Dew Drop Academy’s Creation
Growing up in a village with limited access to quality education, Genavafa Behphat faced numerous challenges when she moved to Shillong. With a background in rote learning, she struggled with English, which affected her ability to perform in higher education. Despite these obstacles, she persevered by absorbing English through practical experiences, such as reading materials and listening to conversations. Her resilience led her to a job at Nazareth Hospital, where she gained confidence and improved her English skills.
However, after facing the reality of costly coaching and limited analytical thinking skills, Behphat decided to become a teacher. She worked tirelessly in English-medium schools and later switched to social work. These experiences opened her eyes to the power of education and its ability to empower individuals. By 2019, Behphat decided to start her own school in Nongshken, hoping to provide local children with the skills she had once longed for.
Dew Drop Academy: A New Era of Education in Nongshken
Dew Drop Academy began with humble beginnings. Genavafa started with 15 students in her family home, using a small community library as a classroom. Despite limited resources, the school provided a learning space for children in the village who had no access to quality education. As the school grew, it expanded with support from the Sunbird Trust, which helped build a proper school building and provided transportation for students.
The school’s affordability and focus on quality education attracted more students. By 2022, the academy had enrolled 80 students, and the school building had expanded. Sunbird Trust’s support played a crucial role in the school’s success, providing funds for construction and necessary infrastructure. Dew Drop Academy became a symbol of hope, not only for education but for the community’s future.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
Dew Drop Academy faces several challenges, including limited financial resources and the seasonal nature of many families’ incomes. Despite these difficulties, the school continues to thrive with the support of the Sunbird Trust and local community involvement. Parents, who once struggled to help with homework, are now actively engaged through WhatsApp groups, improving communication between teachers and families.
Genavafa is determined to overcome these challenges and expand Dew Drop Academy further. Plans include building a computer lab, science lab, and introducing music classes to enhance the students’ educational experience. While the modest tuition fees make the school accessible, some families still find it difficult to pay. Genavafa plans to help these families access state scholarships to ensure their children continue their education.
Through Dew Drop Academy, Genavafa Behphat is not only teaching children but also instilling the confidence to dream big. Her journey reflects the transformative power of education and the impact of community-driven efforts. With continued support and dedication, Dew Drop Academy will continue to shape the future of Meghalaya’s youth, providing them with the skills and confidence they need to thrive.
