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Adversities, hardships spur poverty-stricken Sanjeevani to 3 ‘A’s at A/L
View(s):Pix and text by Athula Devapriya
 Sanjeevani: A dream come true |
 Helping the family financially by teaching mathematics |
 Stepping out from her shanty dwelling |
Twenty-three-year-old Widyaratnage Sanjeevani Priyadharshini grew up amidst many an adversitiy, but instead of them weakening her resolve, she faced every challenge with determination and forbearance. Born and bred among the slum community of Sedawatta in Grandpass, each day was a struggle to get by. It was amidst numerous hardships Sanjeewani experienced on a daily basis that she sat her Advanced Level examination in August 2012, her second attempt to get sufficient marks to enter a university. This time she emerged victorious, obtaining 3 ‘A’s in the Commerce stream.
“In my community, not much emphasis is placed on studies, but I was determined from a young age, to study and do well enough to secure a good job and rescue my parents and two brothers from this life of poverty,” she said. Sanjeewani’s father is a labourer, while her mother is unemployed. She also has two brothers whom she supports by teaching at a school nearby, since she completed her O/L examination three years ago.
“I teach mathematics to Grade 1, 2 and 3 students, so that I can contribute to my family in a small way,” she said. Sanjeewani schooled at Ratnavali Balika Vidyalaya, Borella, where she did well in her studies. Her enthusiasm for studies, also led her teachers, as well as the Sri Sarana Vihara Chief Incumbent Ven.Nawalkande Sobitha Thera to assist her with her education.
The news that she had excelled in her A/L examination, has not only made her parents proud, but has also drawn the attention of the Government authorities. The Ministry of Housing has decided to grant a flat at Sinha Pura, Borella, for this richly deserving student, so that she can continue her studies in a more congenial environment.
“I am determined to improve my parents’ living conditions and also inspire my brothers to do well in their studies,” a contented Sanjeevanai said, when the Sunday Times visited her at her home.
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