5 Santal tribal boys, first generation christian children, are the first ever in their region of 300 villages, who have made it through English medium high school. In any known previous generations their forefathers have never been to school. The Santals are an oral culture. Over 150 years of known Santal culture, the Santals have been oppresed by "outsiders" like the British appointed land lords, tax collectors, and upper caste groups. Their innocence, and illiteracy has been exploited. They have lost their lands, family members and livestock. Many had even become bonded labours. The Santal tribe had waited for the dawn when their children will be educated and they will be able to defend for their rights. 
Today five Santal boys, have just got passed their high school exams. They know Jesus Christ as their personal saviour. They understand that it is because of the church that they have got this opportunity of education. They are role models and a hope for their community. They speak fluent english and grasp legal issues. They are a voice for their Santal community. This vision has been fullfiled because of the persistent effort of the president of Engage India, Rev.Sheila Ponraj. Through the Shalom group of Schools, there are over 1000 students in training who will be champions of poor communities. They are the hope that their children will come back some back, with the power of knowledge to stand up against injustice and oppression.Go to http://www.engageindia.in/ and read more life changing stories and how you be contribute and be a part of this movement of reaching the unreached people groups.
Daniel, office@santaltribe.org
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