Mysuru: Scoring 566 marks in the SSLC examination, Monika K, an abandoned child under the care of the Rural Literacy and Health Programme (RLHP), emerged as the highest scorer among four vulnerable children who cleared the exam despite difficult circumstances.
Monika lost her father when she was two years old and was abandoned by her mother at the age of 12. She later stayed with relatives and studied in a private school before being referred to the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) due to hardship at her relatives' home.
RLHP director K Saraswathi told TOI that Monika was a bright student and was brought to the CWC before being referred to RLHP's girls' home, Asha Bhavana. Despite repeated trauma since childhood, she remained focused on her studies and worked hard to succeed.
Monika said she expected around 90% but scored better than that. She aspires to become an IAS officer and help the public, especially children in situations similar to hers.
Two other abandoned children under RLHP care also cleared the SSLC exam. Mahadeva R scored 325 marks and Tharun scored 300. Both lost one parent at a young age and have been under the organisation's care for the past three years, Saraswathi said.
School Dropout Clears Exam
Supreeth of Yeraganahalli scored 363 marks after clearing the SSLC exam as a private candidate. He had dropped out of school following his father's death and later came under the care of the Child Welfare Committee, a quasi-judicial body.
CWC president Ravichandra said Supreeth had discontinued his education but received support from the committee and was admitted to a govt boys' home, where he was provided coaching before appearing for the board examination.
