Achieving success despite all odds

The story of Depok Sangma from Assembly of God Higher Secondary School, Dimapur is inspiring, to say the least. Depok scored 84.33% and secured the 6th rank in the HSSLC arts stream examinations 2014. He scored distinctions in English, Alternative English, History, Education, Economics, and Political Science.

While many toppers and successful candidates are celebrating their success, The Morung Express caught this topper, in the midst of tutoring his neighbourhood children.

Depok lives with his mother Nomita Sangma, a single parent, who works as a sweeper at Christina Memorial Higher Secondary School and Chowkidar at a Church in Dimapur.  It was at Assembly of God Higher Secondary School, Dimapur, where he met providence in the form of Principal David Ngullie, who has been sponsoring Depok’s education for free. “Seeing my economically depraved background, he helped me out and I will always be grateful,” Depok said.

Devoting two to three hours a day, Depok said that he did not take any coaching classes nor did he hold intensive preparation for the examination. “I did not even set a timetable. But what I did was revise everyday at home what was being taught in the classroom.” Even during examinations, he continued his usual routine. His favourite subject is Economics and History and his plans to sit for competitive exams.

He attributes God as the most important factor in his success. “I did not have any expectation; it’s a miracle of God. You need to put trust in god and work hard.  I also credit my success to my parents,” he adds.

Unlike most boys his age, Depok has no interests in sports but prefers reading books, comics and magazines. He also enjoys watching television and hanging out with his friends. “I love music but I cannot play any instrument. Yet I dream of playing the piano,” he confesses.

He plans to take up honours in Economics and wants to enrol at Patkai Christian College, Chumukedima.  Depok’s mother is overjoyed at her son’s achievement. She laments that she was never able to help out in her children’s studies. “I was worried about how to educate them. Even though we don’t have anyone to help us financially, not even relatives, but God has looked over us.”

Perplexed over the issue that her son possesses an aptitude for academic success but faced with financial difficulty, she stated, “I do not have a fixed dream for him for what will happen next is all God’s will.”  

Depok Sangma has crossed an important milestone in his life. Yet, today he stands unsure of his next step. All because he is economically deprived! Depok leaves us with a message “Every athlete cannot win the race. For me it’s not about winning the race but finishing it thoroughly.”