In 2024, we began supporting the great NGO Goodweave to prevent child labour in the rug, textiles, and garment sector. We are delighted to share some key updates about this project and how Traid’s support is helping to create pathways to education and life opportunities for children across India and Nepal.  

 A group of children showcasing a traditional dance at GoodWeave’s Hamro Ghar (our home) in Nepal. © Slow Tiger. GoodWeave International

In Northern India, the project aims for 800 girls to enrol in life skills education sessions, designed to develop self-confidence, emotional awareness, and personal agency. GoodWeave have already exceeded their target working with 990 girls! Of this group, 559 girls are 14 years old and under, and 431 are 15 to 19 years old.  The sessions cover topics such as conflict resolution, understanding emotions, bodily autonomy, and setting personal boundaries which are all crucial tools for building resilience and reducing a girl’s vulnerability. Each girl attends a series of 13 sessions, offering a structured and supportive environment to explore and strengthen their sense of self.  

One participant, Kumkum, reflected on the transformation: “Before joining the life skills session, I felt uncomfortable speaking in front of others. But after taking part in the session on self-respect and confidence, I am more confident to express myself.”  

Asha, another participant of these sessions shares her experience: “The session on Sympathy and Empathy was really interesting for me. I learned all about emotions and why respect is important for all of us. I used to hesitate before talking to others, but these sessions have really helped me to speak up. I want to attend every session.”  

Another key strand of the project is academic support for those at heightened risk of leaving school early. Through establishing three new Motivation and Learning Camps, 155 girls are now receiving extra tuition in Hindi and maths. This approach reduces a child’s chance of falling into child labour, and increases their chances of staying in, or returning to school.

Peer-to-peer support has also become a crucial element of this project. So far, 49 girls’ empowerment groups have been set up, offering safe spaces for open conversation and mutual encouragement. These groups help challenge deep rooted social norms, including the acceptance of child marriage and child labour, by equipping girls with the tools to advocate for themselves and one another.   

Young women attending an awareness raising class in India. © The Studio_M. GoodWeave International.

In Nepal, the project continues with equally significant progress. GoodWeave has helped 366 children at risk of child labour remain in school or daycare! In these communities, children are at risk of being taken by their parents into carpet factories to work alongside them. To tackle this GoodWeave runs family awareness sessions, which have been attended by 574 parents, to highlight the negative impacts of child labour and the importance of education.

GoodWeave’s support also extends to children who have already experienced child labour.  The project aims to help 70 former child labourers to reunite with their families if possible, and to receive stable educational support. So far, 46 former child workers are currently receiving educational support through a community rehabilitation programme, which includes school enrolment, fee coverage, and regular progress monitoring. 

Children engaging in recreational activities at a daycare center in Nepal. © The Studio_M. GoodWeave International.

By combining education, emotional development, and community awareness, GoodWeave is creating brighter, more secure futures for young children. Together, we aim to foster a future where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive from a life free from child labour. Find out more about this project and GoodWeave here.