From failure to future: Bengaluru NGO helps hundreds of schoolchildren clear supplementary exams

Indian Express

25-06-2025

Written by Mehak Singh
When 17-year-old Ghousia failed her Class 10 exams, she thought it marked the end of her academic journey. A daughter of a welder from Tumkur, Ghousia had failed in three subjects—math, science, and Kannada. But four weeks later, she walked out of her supplementary exams with a passing certificate, renewed hope, and a plan for her future.
Ghousia passed with 52 per cent marks and is now exploring careers in software or clerical work—paths that once felt out of her reach—all thanks to an initiative by the Active Bengaluru Foundation.
The Class 10 pass percentage declined this year in Karnataka, reaching only 65 per cent; among the marginalised sections, only 52 per cent passed the exams.
In response to this dip, the NGO launched Mission No Dropout, a city-wide coaching effort to prepare students, especially those from BPL (below poverty line) and OBC (Other Backward Classes) backgrounds, for their supplementary exams. Within a matter of days, the organisation mobilised over 22 coaching centres across Bengaluru, reaching nearly 150 schools and enrolling over 1,100 students.
'We saw students failing by just five to seven marks, most commonly in math and science. If they didn't clear the supplementary, many would drop out entirely and start working odd jobs,' says Syed Tousif Masood, volunteer & founding member of the Active Bengaluru Foundation. 'So we put together a targeted 'passing package' with daily coaching sessions and personalised mentoring.'
For many students, this initiative was life-changing. But the initiative did not end at just clearing exams. To truly ensure these students do not fall through the cracks again, the Active Bengaluru Foundation organised the Baazigar Awards on June 22—a felicitation and career guidance event for the newly passed students. Over 200 students attended the ceremony, held to honour those who have battled the odds, not just topped the charts.
Career counselling sessions were held for students to choose alternative and skill-based career paths.
'We know not every student can or will go the Class 12-and-degree route,' said Masood. 'So we're helping them explore options that are both affordable and immediately employable.'
The initiative has already seen early signs of success—between 450 and 500 students cleared the first supplementary round. The organisation remains optimistic about raising the success rates in the years to come.
For those who may still fall short, the NGO has launched a dedicated helpline (9364024365), guiding them to enrol in vocational and skill development courses. 'No student should feel abandoned because of one failed exam,' says Masood.
(Mehak Singh is an intern with indianexpress.com)