To become an auditor and repay her father for all that he had given her is one of the prime ambitions of this only daughter of a construction worker. Yet, considering the humble background from which she hails from, it would not be possible for K. Siva Sathya from the Othakalmandapam Government Higher Secondary School in Coimbatore, to become one unless the government offers financial support.

Siva Sathya, who scored 1161, validated her demand after becoming the second highest scorer in Tamil Nadu, among government schools this year in Class 12. The marks might not be much, when compared with those of the toppers from private schools, but the feat is certainly tremendous, considering the humble background that she comes from.

“My family had suffered a lot for me. I want to make them proud. But, if the government does not support me, I may not be able to achieve my dream,” Sathya says, with a tinge of sadness in the midst of her joy.

Her family had to sacrifice a lot to bring her up to this level, not just financially, but also psychologically, by providing a peaceful environment in their humble residence at Othakalmandapam.

“My father Kalimuthu is a construction worker and our family depends solely on his meagre earnings for survival. My mother Eashwari is a homemaker. Though we do not have enough facilities at home, my parents made sure that I was comfortable while studying and I’m grateful for that,” says Sathya, who admits that she knows the sufferings her parents had gone through.

While the facilities provided by her parents is laudable, the treatment provided by her teachers is equally appreciable, as the school had identified her academic prowess early enough and provided special classes for her.

It might have looked unfair for other students, but considering the outcome, the gamble had certainly paid off for the school, and has made them proud.

“My teachers were very supportive and I attribute the success to them. They took extra care in my case and trained me well, and kept motivating and strengthening my belief,” adds Sathya.

But, frankly, the future would be very dark for Sathya if the government doesn’t come forward to support her higher education.

“She is my life and I want her to have a successful future. But I’m afraid that I cannot give her what she wants. I really hope the government does something to help us,” adds Kalimuthu, the proud but worried father.

Siva Sathya also is the district topper among government schools.