Orphan girl tops Barishal Children’s Home with GPA-5

BARISHAL, Aug 13: Munni Akter, the eldest of three offspring of Monir Sikder, a late day-labourer, has secured GPA-5 in 11 of the 12 science subjects in this year’s SSC exam from the Government Children’s Home for Girls in Barishal for the first time from the science group.
Monir Sikder suffered a stroke in early 2019 and died within a month without receiving proper treatment. His death pushed the family into deep financial hardship. Their mother, Kajal Begum, began working as a domestic helper to support her two daughters and infant son. But raising all three children alone became impossible. She eventually admitted Munni to the government children’s home. Later, her younger daughter Suraiya also joined the institution. Kajal Begum said, “After Monir Sikder died, I started working in other people’s houses. My eldest daughter has earned GPA-5. I only want my children to become educated and build a better life.”
When Munni chose the science group, many discouraged her saying science required private tutoring, something her family could not afford. Munni refused to give up and studied herself. Whenever she faced difficulties, she noted them down. Every afternoon, Barishal University student Neman Akon Rocky helped her understand the lessons. Munni said, “The children’s home arranged one guest teacher Neman Akon Rocky. He solved the problems I could not understand.”
Rocky believes her determination made the difference, and she is exceptionally talented. She wrote down every problem and came prepared. Her greatest strength is her determination. She will go far.
Despite her success, Munni worries about the future. She wants to study science in college and eventually become a doctor. “My father died because he could not get proper treatment. He always told me to become a doctor so poor people would not suffer like him. I want to fulfil that dream. But I do not know how I will manage the expenses,” she added.
Farzana Rahman, superintendent of the children’s home, said, “Munni’s result was historic. I have been working here for nearly nine years. No girl had ever secured GPA-5 before. No student from the science group had even appeared in the SSC examination. Munni is the first. All five candidates from the institution passed this year’s examination. Munni’s mother still works in other people’s homes.”