Thrissur: When Asna, a wheelchair using girl from Meladoor, Thrissur scored 1,199 out of 1,200 marks in her Plus Two examination and planned her higher studies, she was concerned about what awaits her in college.
Asna, daughter of K P Siyad and Aneesa from Meladoor, Annamanada, suffers from spinal muscular atrophy, a condition which confined her to wheelchair since the age of 2.
The authorities of Sacred Heart College, Chalakudy read her mind. Aspiring to join civil services, Asna has enrolled for her favourite subject, BA History.
Considering Asna's physical limitations, the college authorities moved the BA History class from the second floor to the ground floor. They also provided ramps and differently-abled-friendly restrooms, making them accessible for Asna and other students with disabilities.
The college aims to embrace all students, providing educational opportunities and helping them excel, said Vice Principal Sister Dr. Princy. Asna said she had mixed feelings while entering college. entered college life with '' I was filled with anxiety and excitement, but the facilities provided for me and other disabled students bring me lot of joy,'' she said.
Aneesa, Asna's mother, mentioned that Asna's physical difficulties became apparent when she was one and a half years old.
Asna cannot walk due to muscle weakness and always needs assistance. She uses a self-controlled electric wheelchair for movement at home and college. Initially, Asna's parents accompanied her to school and they continue to bring her to college by vehicle. Asna, who secured A+ in all subjects in her SSLC examination, has won several awards, including the Ujjwala Balyam Award and the Creative Child Award from the state government.
In her Plus Two examination, she missed full marks by two points but later received an additional mark through revaluation. She wrote her Plus Two exams without any assistance, adding glory to her achievement. The college authorities have said that they would arrange civil service training for Asna as per her wish.