Kerala Student Creates History with Online Participation in Arts Festival
In a groundbreaking moment for the State School Arts Festival, a student from Thrissur has made history by participating online from her home. This marks the first time in the festival's six-decade history that such an arrangement has been made.
Overcoming Health Challenges to Compete
Siya Fathima, a class X student at VKPKHMMRV HSS in Padanna, faced a significant hurdle. She is undergoing treatment for vasculitis, a serious condition where the immune system attacks blood vessels. This illness causes severe pain and makes long-distance travel medically unsafe for her.
Despite this, Siya was determined to take part in the Arabic Poster Designing competition. "I'm really happy that I could participate," she said. "I'm thankful to General Education Minister V Sivankutty for accepting my request." Her efforts paid off, as she secured an A grade in the competition.
Special Arrangements by Authorities
Siya and her teachers approached Minister Sivankutty, seeking permission for alternative arrangements. The minister considered her circumstances carefully and issued a special order allowing her to participate online.
"It was her biggest dream to participate in the competition," Sivankutty told reporters. "We are happy that it could be fulfilled. The 64th edition of the festival has scripted history." He emphasized that her wish to compete deserved humanitarian consideration.
How the Online Participation Worked
The Arabic Poster Designing competition was held at Venue 17, CMS Higher Secondary School. Siya joined through video conferencing from her home while officials supervised the event remotely. Evaluation and judging were conducted online in coordination with the organisers at the venue.
Minister Sivankutty also joined the organisers in watching the competition. Officials implemented specific procedures to ensure fairness and transparency, aligning with the festival's existing norms.
A Landmark Achievement
This innovative approach has set a new precedent for inclusivity in the State School Arts Festival. It demonstrates how technology can bridge gaps and enable participation for students facing health challenges.
The successful execution of this online participation highlights the festival's adaptability and commitment to supporting every student's aspirations.
