I was very shocked to find out that the breeze block structure in the photograph is actually a school for 200 children in a small rural community. There are 6 classrooms, each of which take about 30 children. There are zero facilities and the children sit on the floor in front of the blackboard which has been painted on the wall. I have committed to put in mains electricity at a cost of £100 and provide basic school equipment such as books, writing instruments, paper and essentials totalling £400. The local leaders and teachers were absolutely delightful and were so grateful for any assistance that we may be able to give them.
Working in India is a great challenge. There is corruption all over and I am having to be very careful who we work with. I am working hard to make sure that money is fully accounted for with receipts, and that a fair price is paid for goods and services at the local rate. As a matter of principle, I will not pay bribes for favours or services.
