Ms. Ansar Taj is a 40-year-old mother of two. She hadn’t been to a classroom in forty years. Then, she began attending the Family Literacy classes in August 2004. Classes are held free of cost in the evening at the Government Girls High School, Morgah Rawalpindi, which Ms. Taj attends regularly. Now, after almost two years in the Family Literacy class, she can read and write Urdu and can speak numerous English words. 

Ms. Taj learned of the classes from her daughter and got herself enrolled at once. She found the Family Literacy classes very stimulating. In her own words, “It is quite exciting for me and I feel very happy when my girls teach me.”
   
Family Literacy classes have had a remarkable effect on Ms. Taj’s daily life. She says, “I have learned to count, and I can take measurements which has helped me tremendously in my profession (sewing clothes). Before this I was dependent on my elder daughter. I was in the habit of forgetting things and amounts but now I can write them. I can also keep a record of my own income as well as of my husband’s salary. ” Ms. Taj confides, “I have realized the value of education and encourage my girls to study. Earlier, I used to involve them more in household activities. Now I also teach my nephews who are in primary classes.” She adds that she appreciates the Family Literacy classes enormously and is planning to bring other mothers to them once the next session starts.

Ms. Ansar Taj stated that sometimes when community females visit her house, they are fascinated and often ask her how she manages domestic and professional matters simultaneously. Ms. Taj says she tells them that this has all been possible due to the CRI’s literacy course. She says she is trying to become a role model for all these women and has already motivated 4-5 mothers in her neighborhood to join the literacy class when the next session.

ANSAR TAJ
Govt. Girls High School AOC Morgah
Rawalpindi