Waste Pickers’ Children Shine In SSC Exams, Achieve 84% Success Rate Against All Odds
Waste Pickers’ Children Shine In SSC Exams, Achieve 84% Success Rate Against All Odds
Pune, May 9: Children of waste pickers in Pune have delivered an inspiring performance in the Class 10 board examinations, overcoming financial struggles, social discrimination and difficult living conditions to achieve academic success.
This year, 199 students from waste picker families appeared for the SSC examination, including 109 boys and 90 girls. Out of them, 84% students successfully cleared the exams, reflecting remarkable determination and perseverance.
Among the students, 11 candidates appeared for the examination externally through Form 17, showcasing exceptional commitment towards continuing their education despite challenges.
In a heartening development, three waste pickers themselves also fulfilled their long-pending dream of passing the 10th standard examination this year. Several women waste pickers associated with SWaCH, who work in door-to-door waste collection and support their families financially, completed their SSC exams alongside their children.
The achievement was made possible with the support of Kagad Kach Patra Kashtakari Panchayat (KKPKP), which provided year-long assistance to students through scholarships, study materials, coaching support and academic guidance.
As part of its motivational efforts, the organisation also arranged a special screening of the Marathi film Aata Thambaycha Naay for waste pickers and their children. Many students reportedly drew inspiration from the film and decided to appear for their SSC examinations this year.
Social workers associated with the initiative said the students’ achievements demonstrate how determination and access to educational support can help overcome social and economic barriers.
The success of these students is being seen as a powerful example of resilience, with many now looking forward to pursuing higher education and building independent futures for themselves and their families.
No private tuitions, yet Khushi scored 89%
“I didn’t take any coaching classes because I believe in self study.”, Khushi says. “My mother supports me in every way she can. While Kagad Kach Patra Kashtakari Panchayat provided financial help, they also guided me to stay motivated and not focus on the difficulties.”
Khushi has a message for other students: “Motivation doesn’t come from videos. It lives within you, you just have to find it.”
Kaveri Khupte, who lives in Patil Estate, Shivajinagar, is a member of Kashtakari Panchayat. As a single mother, she manages the responsibility of two children while collecting waste daily to support the family.
Sarthak Meshram scored 86 percent despite all odds
Sadhana Meshram Chandanshive has been a member of SWaCH for the past 2 years. Her husband works as a daily wage labourer. Drawing inspiration from his parents’ struggles, Sarthak Meshram Chandanshive scored 86.60% in his 10th standard. Sadhana’s family previously lived in a village near Barshi, working as agricultural labourers on others’ farms. But with an eye toward their children’s future and better income, they made the decision to leave the village and move to Pune.
Divya Vikas Shirsat from Patil estate, prepared for her 10th standard with remarkable dedication and consistency. She studied regularly at home and attended classes to clarify her doubts with teachers. She stayed away from her mobile phone, keeping her focus entirely on her studies. Both her grandmother and father work as waste pickers.
With support from Kagad, Kach, Patra Kashtakari Panchayat, Divya received coaching classes, which greatly aided her preparation.
Divya has one message for fellow students: “Use your mobile phone wisely. Stay consistent with your studies. Seek guidance from your teachers. Hard work and persistence only guarantee success.”
