Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 14 May 2025
In a landmark achievement, nine students from the Onge community have successfully passed the CBSE Class 10 examinations — a first in the history of this Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG). The milestone marks a significant leap forward in the educational empowerment of tribal communities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
This historic feat is the result of sustained efforts by the UT Administration, the Directorate of Tribal Welfare, and the Andaman Adim Janjati Vikas Samiti (AAJVS), who have worked collaboratively to provide tailored educational support to tribal students.
The Administration played a crucial role in ensuring access to quality education by providing free textbooks, uniforms, and promoting inclusive learning initiatives. Through a combination of special training programs, remedial classes, and culturally sensitive teaching environments, AAJVS and the Directorate of Education addressed the unique academic and social needs of tribal students.
Nutritional support and infrastructural improvements in tribal schools further contributed to a learning-friendly environment, while regular mentoring helped minimize dropouts and bolster confidence among students.
The Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration commended the resilience and hard work of the students, their families, teachers, and field functionaries of AAJVS, whose collective efforts helped overcome longstanding socio-economic and linguistic barriers.
“This achievement is a shining example of what can be accomplished through dedication and inclusive policy implementation,” the Chief Secretary noted. “It sets a precedent for other tribal communities and reinforces our commitment to uplifting PVTG students through education.”
The UT Administration reaffirmed its pledge to continue investing in tribal education, aiming to achieve higher enrolment and success rates in the years ahead. (Story Based on PR)