14-year-old Jasmine escapes child marriage, stands first in her class

14-year-old Jasmine, a student in grade nine at Rajshahi Alor Pathshala – an initiative of the Prothom Alo Trust – dreams of becoming an educator and helping people. She has, however, had to overcome outstanding circumstances and difficulties to reach this far.
At the age of 13, while she was still in grade eight, Jasmine was about to be married off by her mother and stepfather. However, in an act of immense courage and resilience, Jasmine took matters into her own hands and fled the wedding, taking refuge at the Rajshahi Alor Pathshala. She informed the teachers there about her family's intentions of marrying her off against her will. The teachers then stopped the wedding but angered at this interference, Jasmine's mother refused to fund her education going forth. Subsequently, the teachers at Rajshahi Alor Pathshala took up the responsibility of helping Jasmine complete her education.
Despite these tremendous obstacles, Jasmine was promoted to grade nine this year, having completed grade eight at the top of her class. When she is not studying, Jasmine dabbles in poetry, painting, dance, music, and debate, participating in various school competitions related to these fields.
Undefeated and unfaltering, Jasmine aspires to become a teacher in the future, saying, "I dream of finishing my education and becoming an ideal teacher who helps underprivileged students. With everyone's continued support, I will certainly fulfill all my aspirations."
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