Malkangiri: Devotion, dedication and determination can move mountains. Malkangiri’s Basanti Muduli, an Anganwadi worker who appeared for Class X examination along with her son this year, has proved it right by clearing the examination in her first attempt.
Basanti was married to Laba Patnaik of Tarlakota village in the tribal-dominated district at a very young age. She had to leave school after her marriage but her zeal towards studies never perished.
While giving lessons to her elder son who was also appearing for matriculation exams being conducted by BSE, she also started preparing simultaneously and got herself enrolled under Odisha State Open School Programme.
Fighting all odds, Basanti and her son managed to clear the matriculation exam with flying colours and turned inspiration for the villagers.
“After coming back from Anganwadi at around 1 pm, I used to go through my son’s books and prepare for matriculation. My attempt was successful and I have cleared it. I want to study further," says an elated Basanti.
Basanti’s husband said, “Though she had responsibilities of Anganwadi, household chores and children, she was very keen towards studies and finally she passed the examination with flying colours.”
“She is an inspiration to the village as well as the district. With government’s support and aid, I am sure more people who are dropouts can study which will develop the society as well as the nation,” said a villager Trinath Khemdu.