First batch of government model school students in Thoothukudi shines in national-level entrance exams

The first batch of 74 students who cleared the Class 12 examination from the government model school in Vallanadu in Thoothudi district is ambitiously working towards securing seats in prestigious institutions across the country.

The first batch of students who passed Class 12 from the government model school at Vallanadu in Thoothukudi district has cleared various national-level entrance examinations conducted so far for the academic year 2025-26. The 74 students from this pioneering batch are ambitiously working towards securing seats in prestigious institutions across the country.

Many of the students are awaiting counselling while others have begun the admission process and continue to attempt additional examinations to explore the best possible options for higher education.

The government model school at Thoothukudi was inaugurated in 2023. All 74 students admitted to Class XI have now successfully completed their higher secondary education with some even securing admission before the public examinations. Notably, students S. Abivarshini and J.E. Srither secured their seats at Azim Premji University in Bengaluru.

J.E. Srither, who chose to pursue B.Sc. Physics, said he had taken the exam in December, cleared the interview in January, and secured his seat by February.

“My father is a daily wage painter and studying in such a premier institution seemed unimaginable. But the model school has made it possible with ease. They provided accommodation, food, and all necessary facilities. All we have to do is study,” he said.

He said: “I have been selected for a fully funded scholarship where the institution will take care of accommodation, food, and provide laptops for educational purposes.”

Similarly, four students have been selected for the JEE (Advanced) from the school. A. Balamurugan, one of the selected students from the school, hails from modest background. His mother Valliammal is a daily wage worker. Balamurugan said that his mother was not even aware of entrance tests and institutions existing and added that he aspired to clear the UPSC examination after completing his undergraduate studies.