Students’s Gratitude Sparks Unusual Show of Affection; Ziya Fathima's Friends Express Gratitude

Thiruvananthapuram: One of the most unforgettable moments of the Kerala State School Arts Festival was when Ziya Fathima, a student of VKPKHMMRV HSS, Padanna, Kasargod, who is suffering from a serious illness, took part in the competition from her home. The opportunity was made possible through a special intervention by the General Education Department, following the directions of General Education Minister V Sivankutty. Ziya went on to secure an A grade in Arabic Poster Designing.

The entire Padanna school expressed gratitude to the government for the opportunity given to their friend and her achievement. Students assembled together on the ground holding up the word “Thank You” in malayalam, expressing their affection and appreciation. Sharing a video from the school, the minister wrote on social media that “the sight was truly heart-touching.”

Despite physical limitations, ensuring that students are given a platform to showcase their talents is the responsibility of this government, the minister noted. He added that the government had merely fulfilled its duty and emphasized the need to move forward together, leaving no one behind. He also congratulated the classmates and teachers who supported Ziya and once again extended his best wishes to her.

After the competition, Ziya Fathima said she was happy that the minister had arranged for her to participate online, considering her health condition. Ministers V Sivankutty and K Rajan arrived at the venue to watch the competition live on a specially arranged screen. The judges also evaluated the competition online.

Ziya Fathima is suffering from vasculitis, a serious medical condition. Doctors had strictly advised against travel, warning that it could be life-threatening, making it impossible for her to reach the venue in Thrissur. Ziya and her teachers brought the situation to the attention of the minister. Acknowledging that her desire to participate despite intense pain could not be ignored, the minister had earlier stated that a special order was being issued on humanitarian grounds to help realize her dream.