Inspiring Firsts: Onge Tribe Students Break Educational Barriers

Nine students from the Onge tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, achieved a significant educational breakthrough by passing the CBSE Class 10 board exams. The group, which includes five girls and four boys, has been admitted to Class 11 in the Arts stream at PM Shri Government Senior Secondary School in Dugong Creek, Little Andaman.

The achievement marks the first time Onge students have reached this level of education. Prakash Tirkey, a local school teacher, praised the students for their determination and aspirations to integrate into mainstream society and seek employment opportunities. The students include Alagae, Kokoi, Mukesh, Palith, Sonia, Bolling, Gitae, Otikalai, and Suma, each expressing different ambitions for future careers.

Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Tribal Welfare Department, Satyendra Singh Dursawat, highlighted the role of visionary leaders, including Lieutenant Governor Admiral D K Joshi (Retd), in achieving this milestone. Comprehensive support, including specialized classroom environments and necessary provisions, has been provided to aid the students' transition.

(With inputs from agencies.)