While the SSLC results brought cheer to many students on Tuesday, for some, they were a taste of success against all the odds.
Among them were an orphan, a school dropout, and an abandoned child. Krishnaveni Ventakesh, who was funded by Sparsha, a non-governmental organisation, secured 71% marks. She was abandoned as a child and left in her grandparents’ care at a very young age, along with her two sisters, as her parents were not happy at having birthed another girl child. The grandparents dropped them off at the NGO. “The support of the NGO and hard work helped me secure 71% in the exam,” she said.
Archana Selvadorai dropped out of school on account of financial constraints. She decided to resume studies three years ago, and has now passed SSLC with 72%. Chitra S, a coordinator at Sparsha, said Ms. Archana’s parents were labourers and her father lost his leg during a construction accident. “ I am happy with my marks, but I will work hard and score better in the future,” said Ms. Archana.
Sathya R., a rescued child labourer, got help from the Association for Promoting Social Action (APSA). She has now passed SSLC with 57.12% marks. Ms. Sathya was working as household help when she was rescued. Laksha P., a coordinator at APSA, said the girl was orphaned when she was brought to them. “She is a bright student and also participates in extra-curricular activities,” he said.
Ms. Sathya found English and Science very difficult, and expressed delight at having passed in those papers too.