Migrant worker from Assam finds a perfect ‘Changathi’ in Kerala

T'puram: When 24-year-old Ashadul Haq embarked on a train from Assam to Kerala seven years ago, his only goal was survival. He dropped out after Class VII due to economic hardship and left home with little hope for education, only the desire to earn a living.Today, thanks to Kerala's proactive literacy initiatives, Chottu, as he is affectionately known at Aryanad in Thiruvananthapuram, not only completed the Class X equivalency exam but also attempted the higher secondary equivalency course. His fluid Malayalam and confidence are a testament to Kerala's inclusive educational frameworks. "Guys, I'm Ashadul Haq from Assam," he says in flawless Malayalam in a celebratory video. "What I never received in Assam, Aryanad panchayat, the Literacy Mission and the Kerala govt have given me." His message, shared on YouTube, exudes heartfelt gratitude. A pivotal moment came when he joined a hotel job in Aryanad. Initially struggling with language barriers, he spent six months immersing himself in Malayalam. Encouraged by ward member Radhakrishnan and literacy instructor Bindu teacher, Chottu joined the Changathi (Friend) literacy programme under the Kerala State Literacy Mission Authority, designed especially for migrant workers. Launched in 2017 and piloted in Perumbavoor, the project uses specially crafted textbook Hamari Malayalam, with 25 chapters of dialogue-based lessons on hygiene, rights, ethics and daily life, to help migrants learn Malayalam in four months. Chottu stands as a success story of the initiative. He now records Malayalam videos shot across state, shares his experiences and inspires others. He credits Kerala's schools, attentive teachers and inclusive policies for transforming his life. "In Assam, girls are often married off by 18. Education is scarce. Life is different there," he says. In Kerala, he found a second chance. With his family still back home, Chottu hopes to continue his studies, driven by his gratitude for the dignity and opportunities Kerala has extended to him.

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