1.5-foot girl defies odds to appear for Matric exam in Odisha

In an exemplary story of determination and courage, a Class 10 student from Kamakhyanagar block in Odisha's Kendrapara district has become the centre of attention for appearing in the Matric examination under extraordinary circumstances. Sunita Nayak, a student of Nigamananda High School under Mahulpal Panchayat, is believed to be the shortest Matric examinee in the state, standing at just one and a half feet tall.

At first glance, one might mistake the scene outside the examination centre for a mother carrying her small child. However, the reality is both surprising and inspiring; the child in her arms is actually a Matric examinee. This year, Sunita is appearing for the Class 10 board examination at Panchayatiraj High School in Kanapura.

Never Letting Physical Challenges Stand In Way Of Her Education

Born with hearing and speech impairment, Sunita has never let her physical challenges stand in the way of her education. Despite being unable to speak or hear, she possesses a deep passion for studies. She communicates through gestures, expressing her answers with the help of signs.

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Every day during the examination, Sunita’s mother carries her to the examination centre. After reaching the centre, a relative who studies in Class 9 assists her by writing down the answers in the answer sheet based on the gestures she makes. On the day of the General Science examination, her mother once again carried her to the school, and after the exam, she returned home in her mother’s arms.

Power Example Of Resilience

“My husband passed away around 12 years ago. I have been carrying her to the exam centre since her childhood. She is giving signals and my nephew is helping her as scribe,” said Sanju Nayak, mother of Sunita.

“She is my sister. She signals me, and I help her write. The exam is going well,” said Pratap Nayak, Sunita’s scribe.

Sunita dreams of pursuing higher education after clearing the Matric examination. Her teachers and classmates have expressed immense pride and happiness over her determination and dedication.

Sunita’s journey stands as a powerful example of resilience, proving that no obstacle is too big when determination is stronger than adversity.