News Reporter
Churachandpur, Manipur - 27 October, 2023: In the face of ethnic clashes and harrowing circumstances, Somali Kothoujam, a 21-year-old student from Thengra Leikai in Churachandpur district, has defied the odds to secure the 7th position in her BSc (Geology Hons) examination conducted by Manipur University.
The story of Somali's remarkable achievement is a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience, even amid adversity. Ethnic clashes that erupted in Manipur on May 3 forced Somali and her family, who belong to the Meitei community, to flee their home in Churachandpur district for their safety. They now reside in the Moirang Khunou Mamang Sabal Mandob Relief Camp in Bishnupur district.
Despite the challenges faced during the crisis and the lack of a proper space to study, Somali remained steadfast in her pursuit of education. With limited resources and an environment far from ideal for studying, she continued to work tirelessly towards her academic goals.
In a heartwarming display of recognition for Somali's remarkable achievement, Tongbram Robindro Singh, the Chairman of Manipur State Power Company Limited (MSPCL) and MLA of Thanga Assembly Constituency, felicitated her during a small ceremony held at the relief camp.
During the felicitation program, MLA Tongbram Robindro Singh presented Somali with a bouquet, a traditional Manipuri Lengyan attire, and a sum of Rs 10,000 as a token of appreciation for her extraordinary performance in the examination conducted by Manipur University.
"Somali’s success is a testament to the fact that with unwavering determination, one can overcome any obstacle. Despite the adversities she faced, she focused on her future and emerged victorious. Her story is an inspiration to us all," commented MLA Robindro Singh.
Meanwhile, Somali, visibly moved by the recognition, expressed her gratitude, stating, "I never imagined that I would secure the 7th position. The journey was incredibly challenging, with struggles starting since May. The conditions at the relief camp were tough with inadequate lighting, lack of study tables, and no separate room for studying. But I refused to give up. I persevered because I knew education was my ticket to a better future."
Somali's determination and MLA Tongbram Robindro Singh's gesture of recognition exemplify the power of education and resilience in overcoming even the harshest of circumstances. Somali's inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that with determination, no obstacle is insurmountable.