Orphans Living in Orphanage: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Orphans living in an orphanage have the right to avail education like other children. They are provided education but often lack professionals, resources, guidance and counseling, individual support, and planning for learning at the orphanage. Academic related activities at a young age are a necessary requirement to advance in education and career. Developing study habit is very essential for orphans to advance in higher education. The present study aimed to explore the academic and general activities carried out by orphans, and the challenges and issues encountered by them in an orphanage. Purposive sampling technique was employed to achieve the objectives. An observation schedule and self-structured interview with caregiver, caseworker, orphans, and teacher were used to collect information. The major findings of the study are that orphans spent time watching TV, reading books, drawing and coloring, and helping younger ones during free time. Caregiver, case worker, and teacher consider orphans need continuous support, empathy, and intervention in the form of coaching, tuition, career guidance, and motivation from capable youths to assist the orphans in their daily academic work. This will build interest and confidence in studies, leading to willingness to develop a good study habit hence resulting in success.