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Our Origins

Ms. Shafiqa Parveen and Ms. Zainab Bano, who were born in Turtuk and did their initial schooling there, had to move to larger cities to finish schooling and graduation. This is typical for all Turtuk kids, but not all parents can afford to send their children to large cities. Ms. Shafiqa and Ms. Zainab had a strong desire to improve the education infrastructure in Turtuk for the next generation of children. 

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Ms. Sarah Shah, driven by an inner calling to help children in rural areas, arrived in Turtuk in 2016 as a volunteer tutor. Inspired by the potential of the local children and motivated by the support of the local community, Ms. Shah conceptualized a school that would provide quality education and opportunities similar to that of larger towns.

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This idea became a reality with the support of Mr. Jitendra M. Mandlecha. Jitendra Sir, as he is popularly known, has extensive experience in academic administration and social service through education. Being the General Secretary of the AFAC Trust, he also has the resources and practical know-how to setup successful educational institutions. 

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The joint effort of Ms. Sarah Shah and the Daughters of Turtuk, supported by the experience of Jitendra Sir and resources of the AFAC Trust, was able overcome all challenges and bear fruit. In 2020, the Turtuk Valley School was launched.

Meet our Founding Team

Mr. Jitendra M Mandlecha

Mr. Jitendra M Mandlecha

General Secretary, AFAC Trust

Mr. Jitendra Mandlecha has been the backbone of Turtuk Valley School since its founding. With his deep passion and extensive experience in education and social work, Mr.Jitendra strongly believes that education is the only tool to shape a good human being and a true citizen.

Ms. Zainab Bano

Ms. Zainab Bano

Co-founder and Principal

Ms. Zainab Bano, a daughter of Turtuk, is the Principal of the school and teaches Science and Math to the children

Mrs. Sarah Shah

Mrs. Sarah Shah

Founding Member and CEO

Mrs. Sarah Shah, a progressive educator, moved to Turtuk in 2016. The Turtuk Valley School was her brainchild with the help of Mr. Mandlecha and the AFAC Trust to provide rural students with equal educational opportunities through innovative teaching practices that promote the joy of learning

Late Ms. Shafiqa Parveen

Late Ms. Shafiqa Parveen

Co-founder and Co-ordinator

Ms. Shafiqa Parveen, a daughter of Turtuk became a teacher in the school in an attempt to bridge the gap between city kids and village kids

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