Dramatic results in Maharashtra SSC exam from two schools in rural areas of Ahmednagar

Pooja Tribhuvan achieved 94% while Tanuja Kale 92.2% in the recent SSC Maharashtra state exams. They are both school toppers.  What makes these girls special is that they are a part of the dramatic results in SSC exams from two schools in remote rural areas of Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. The schools not only had over 90% of pass students, the top three toppers in both schools have been girls. They have showcased the talent of children in rural homes, who excel despite being underprivileged as well as for some the challenge of being first generation learners.

A Quality education initiative for rural children by Godavari Biorefineries Limited in association with Somaiya Vidyavihar – Somaiya Vidya Mandir Laxmiwadi, and Somaiya Vidya Mandir, Sakarwadi have achieved over 90 percent results. The schools provide quality education, encourage the children as well as work with the parents to ensure children complete their education. Besides these students get exposure of visits by teachers, guest lecturers from Somaiya Vidyavihar, Mumbai as well as guests from international colleges who share their knowledge.

Over fifty percent of the students in these schools come from very poor rural backgrounds, with parents as farmers or laborers. The children are the first generation of learners.  Girls have shown excellent results, facing difficult social and economical challenges.

Says Pooja Tribhuvan, whose father is a wireman and mother works in a sweet shop. “ I studied two or three hours a day.  I had difficulty in Sanskrit and English. The school supported me in overcoming my difficulties in these subjects. “

Says Kailashraoji Tribhivan, father of Pooja Tribhuvan “I had to leave my studies and take up work.  I wanted my children to have the opportunity of good education.  Pooja, worked very hard. It was her ‘zidd’ (determination) that what her father did not get an opportunity to do, she will do. My son too has studied in this school. This education will open the doors for their future.”

Said Principal Sunita Pare “ Tanuja C Kale, is a daughter of a farmer, also topped the National Talent Search last year. She is very intelligent student and has worked hard despite financial difficulties. “

Says Mr. Samir Somaiya, President, Somaiya Vidyavihar,  “Social Responsibility has always been an integral part of the Somaiya Group.  We believe that education has the power to drive long term, sustainable, impact for socio-economic transformation. The school is an important institution for rural development. The dedication of the Principal and the teachers create the foundation of great institutions. The children of the villages are dear to us and we are very proud of their achievements.”