On February 19, Nanded witnessed a heartening example of student support when 21-year-old Shital Chandrakant Chitte attended her Class 12 Maharashtra Board Political Science exam with her 10-day-old baby. Enrolled at Shri Basweshwar College, Chitte had already appeared for her English exam on February 10, just two days after giving birth, with her sister’s support.
In response to Chitte’s unique circumstances, the college implemented a‘Matrusneh Kaksha’, a special mother-friendly room equipped with a cradle for her baby. This allowed Chitte to take her exams in a safe and comfortable environment while her newborn rested nearby.
Chitte, married for two years, explained that her husband works during the day and there is no one at home to care for the baby. Despite these challenges, she was determined not to miss any exams, emphasizing the importance of education in shaping her future. Her family fully supported her decision to continue studying after becoming a mother.
Nanded education officer Madhav Salgar praised the college’s initiative and assured that such arrangements would be made at exam centres in the future to motivate other students in similar situations.
Sudhakar Telang, Sudhakar Telang, noted that this was thefirst instance of such an initiative in the state, highlighting the progressive approach of exam authorities in accommodating diverse student needs.
The Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examinations for the Maharashtra Board began on February 10, with 861 candidates appearing at the Nanded centre. Authorities reported that the mother-friendly arrangements did not disrupt the examination process, demonstrating that student-centric measures can coexist with orderly exam conduct.
The local administration also indicated plans to extend similar support across other centres in upcoming exams, ensuring that students in unique circumstances can continue their education without compromise.
This initiative in Nanded serves as amodel exampleof how educational institutions can adapt to students’ varying needs, making education inclusive and supportive for all.
