Minister felicitates child cancer survivors who passed with flying colours 

The School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi honoured child cancer survivors who achieved success in their Class 10 and 12 public exams on Saturday in Chennai.

Speaking at the event organised by Cankids Kidscan, a national NGO dedicated to holistic childhood cancer care, he said, “These children are not just survivors; they are warriors and achievers. Through the Nalam Nadi app which checks for 21 disabilities, we will also take steps to create more awareness regarding symptoms of cancer that might affect children.”

The event was part of the global Cancer Survivors Month observance. In 2023, Canshala was established, a special school for children with cancer which functions in association with the Nandanam Government Model Higher Secondary School, through a formal MoU signed with the Tamil Nadu School Education Department in September 2022.

Latha Mani, regional head – south, Cankids, expressed gratitude to the government for the support and put forth few demands. “The teachers in schools have been reaching out regarding some symptoms that kids are experiencing which could be related to cancer. There is a need to give training to the teachers regarding support for children with cancer and create more awareness,” she said. She also stated that there is a need for more such schools in other major cities too as students are taking treatment in other districts such as Madurai and Tiruchi.

“This event is not just a celebration of academic results as it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to inclusive education,” added Mrs. B. Revathi Shre, Principal of CANSHALA.

The Minister felicitated the survivor-students with mementos and certificates and also launched a book authored by one of the survivors, Tamil Vannan. MLAs J. Karunanithi and Dha. Velu were also present.