Dhenkanal: Standing just one and a half feet tall, Sumita Nayak from Kamakhyanagar block in Dhenkanal district is making headlines for her extraordinary determination as she appears for the Class X board exams this year.
Sumita, a student of Nigamananda High School under Mahulpal Panchayat, is believed to be the shortest examinee in the state. Born with hearing and speech impairments, she has never allowed her physical challenges to come in the way of her education.
Every day, Sumita’s mother, Sanju Nayak, carries her to Panchayat Raj High School in Kanapura, where she takes her exams. Once at the centre, her cousin, Pratap Nayak, a Class IX student, assists her by writing down answers based on the gestures Sumita uses to communicate.
“My husband passed away around 12 years ago. I have been carrying her to the exam centre since she was a child. She gives signals, and my nephew helps her write,” said Sanju Nayak.
“She is my sister. She signals me, and I help her write. The exam is going well,” said Pratap Nayak, Sumita’s scribe.
Despite the challenges, Sumita remains determined to pursue higher education after clearing her Class X exams. Her teachers and classmates have expressed immense pride over her dedication and resilience.
