SHILLONG, Sep 6: The children of roadside vendors, who excelled in this year’s board and university examinations in the state, were felicitated by a hawkers and vendors’ organisation on Monday.
The first of its kind initiative of the Meghalaya and Greater Shillong Progressive Hawkers and Street Vendors Association (MGSPHSVA) was to acknowledge the efforts of children who performed well despite facing various challenges during these difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The association had conducted coaching at the community hall of Umsohsun Dorbar Shnong from November last year to March this year for the benefit of the students.
Two students – Khusina M Marak and Shumilin Rani – had managed to clear Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) in first division. Three others – Celestine M Marak, Malveen Malngiang and Payal Paul – had secured 75% marks with distinction in mathematics and science in the SSLC exam conducted by the Meghalaya Board of School Education.
Similarly, Jasinta Sangma and Merlin Pathaw had secured 77% and 68% marks in the HSSLC exam.
Angela Rangad, an invitee member of MGSPHSVA, said it was heartwarming that the achievement of the children of roadside hawkers was being celebrated.
“This is only a token of appreciation from the organisation. This is the best thing to have happened after a year that was full of uncertainties,” Rangad said.
She was hopeful that the free tuition would continue during the current academic session. “We all know that these free tuition classes are really beneficial to children who are good at studies. We are happy that the initiative paid off,” Rangad said.
She said the parents are extremely proud of their children since they had a horrifying experience due to COVID-induced lockdown.
“It was difficult for the parents even to manage the meals of the children and pay their school fees. I think the parents deserve a pat on their back for the sacrifices they made,” Rangad said.
She said the organisation will try to raise funds to help the children of roadside vendors.
