Appeal N14: (Sept 06) GANESH IS JUST FOURTEEN. HE WANTS AN EDUCATION. Instead he drives a rickshaw in Kathmandu, every night.

Ganesh, like many boys in Nepal, was unable to continue with his education because of lack of money. He left his poor village home near Dhulikel and caught a bus to Kathmandu. That was a year ago. He became a rickshaw driver, hiring a cycle rickshaw for about 80 rupees (60 pence) a night and trying to make a living taking tourists from one nightspot to another. He lives in a small shack, in a slum area near the airport, and his life is without hope.

He would love to get back to school, but this would require a room for study, and a little money for food, and books. Ganesh is quite independent, and able to cook, wash clothes, etc., but if he is sponsored, he will have a guardian to look after him, and SHIVA Charity would ensure his well being and safety.

Ganesh would like to take his SLC exam in two years time. He would like a chance to leave the rickshaw and the squalor behind.