Arni School Students Continue to Excel
Students at Scudder-supported Arni School in Arni, India, scored big on recent government examinations, opening doors to higher education that can lead to college admission and successful careers in business and the professions.
Their success provided a living example that putting legs under the Scudder Foundation’s “Service to Others” motto can pay big dividends.
Out of 20 students who took the government tests, 18 scored top marks, a remarkable 86% success rate.
Even more remarkable is that all of the students come from families who live below the poverty line.
Arni School was founded in 1876 by Ezekiel Scudder, the son of pioneer medical missionary Dr. John Scudder.
The Indian government finances education only through the tenth grade, a level not adequate for students to gain college admittance. So, the Scudder Association Foundation and an anonymous donor stepped in and provided financing to hire 11th and 12th grade teachers.
Arni school official Dr. V. Thiyagarajan commented, “This success was only possible through SAF paying these teachers.” He added, “We are grateful to you for personally taking care of Arni.”
Among the courses taught in the program are math, biology, physics, chemistry, computer science, economics, commerce, and history.
Two boys failed in chemistry, but Dr. Thiyagarajan says they will pass a subsequent exam in the near future.
Particularly moving is the story of the top performer, S. Sudharson, who has no mother or father. He is being raised by elderly grandparents, as is an older brother (an Arni alum) who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in college. A most remarkable family.
Where there is opportunity, there is hope. And where there is hope, there can be achievement. These boys are living proof of what hard-working, dedicated young people can do if given a chance.
We’re proud to have contributed to the success of these outstanding students.
