Education shapes our daughters’ future, say single mothers of Class 10 toppers in Chennai

Education is crucial, especially for the girl child, said the single mothers whose daughters topped the Class 10 State Board examinations among the students of Chennai Corporation schools. The results were published on May 20, 2026.

G. Kirathi Maya Sree of Chennai Girls Higher Secondary School at M.H. Road, Perambur, emerged as the top scorer with 495 out of 500 marks.

Anandhi M. of Chennai Higher Secondary School, MMDA II, also secured 495 marks. Raised by a single mother, she now aspires to pursue a range of ambitions — from interior design to software development.

“During the holidays, I am planning to take online courses to learn new technologies. I want to learn software such as Premiere Pro and also Artificial Intelligence technologies,” she said.

Art has always interested her. “I would paint and draw, even on the walls of my house,” she said, adding that she draws inspiration from her brother who works as a motion graphic designer.

Her mother, Ms. Sumathi, brimming with pride, said education was essential for everyone. “My dream is to see her become a District Collector. But her interests matter the most. She can pursue any field she wants,” she said.

Self-preparation for civil service exam

Anandhi M., who scored 494 marks, said she was preparing for the civil service examinations on her own, as her single mother, a domestic help, could not afford private coaching.

“Becoming an IAS officer has been my dream since I was four-years-old. My father, who passed away when I was three, did not know how to navigate legal issues related to a land dispute. He did not know how to file petitions or whom to approach. That inspired me to think of becoming an IAS officer,” she said. “I prepare for the civil service exam using my mother’s mobile phone — watching explainers, news and videos relevant to the examination,” she added.

Anandhi M., who scored 494 marks in the Class 10 examinations in academic year 2025-26.
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Her mother, M. Durgadevi, who studied only up to Class 5, said life might have been different had she received education. “It is important that my daughter studies well and reaches the heights she aspires to. Education is the only wealth that can never be taken away from us. My daughter is my wealth,” she said.

Ms. Anandhi added that her grandmother had also played a major role in raising her and supporting her dreams.