When students imagine success, it often looks like confidence, clarity, and a straight path forward. But for millions of learners, especially those from rural or underserved backgrounds, education begins very differently. It begins with uncertainty, long journeys, and quiet determination.
This is the story of one such learner and why her journey matters to rural students in a rapidly changing, technology driven world.
Rural Education and the Role of Parents
I was born in a very small village. In our family, education for girls was not an expectation, it was an exception. Education for women was not common, and no woman in my family had ever gone to school. What changed my life was my parents. They believed that their daughter deserved an education. They stood against family elders and social pressure so I could go to school. This was not easy.
In rural areas, schools may be far away, and support systems are weak. In such cases,?parents become the first teachers and supporters. Their belief can open doors even when the system is not ready. Now a days many volunteers, NGO’s running programs, workshops focusing on rural areas to spread awareness of education and make it accessible for many.
For students reading this: If someone supports your learning either your parents, teachers, or mentors value that support. It can change your life.
Language Barriers and Inclusive Learning
Going to school did not mean learning was easy for me. Why? Because I chose education in English, but it was not spoken at home. I wanted to learn, but I could not always understand the lessons. Because of this, my marks were not very high.
Many students face the same problem today.?Language barriers can hide real talent.?A student may be curious and hardworking but still struggle because the teaching style or language does not fit their background.
What helped me was my parents’ mindset. They did not focus only on marks. They believed learning takes time. This gave me confidence and patience.
This is where EdTech is important, Digital learning tools can support:
Inclusive learning helps more students succeed,?not just a few.
Resilience Matters More Than Perfect Scores
Over time, I improved and did well in my tenth-grade exams. But during my +2 exams, a serious family illness affected me deeply. My results were not good enough to study engineering, which was considered the “best” option.
At that time, I felt like I had failed. But I learned something important:?One exam does not decide your future. I chose a different path. I completed my bachelor’s degree with good results and later earned my master’s degree. The journey was not straight, but it was meaningful.
For students today, this lesson is important. Learning paths are changing. Skills, effort, and adaptability are becoming more valuable than one-time exam results. Failure is not the end. It is feedback.
Lifelong Learning in a Global World
After my studies, I worked in different companies, small and large. Each job taught me something new.
Later, I moved to another country.?I had to:
My degrees helped, but they were not enough. I had to?keep learning.
Today’s students are entering a global world. Jobs change quickly. Technology evolves fast.?Learning does not stop after graduation.
EdTech platforms support this by offering:
Lifelong learning is no longer optional, it is necessary.
Why This Story Is Important for Students
Today, I work as a Europe Digital Finance Controller, supporting global teams. Alongside my professional role, I take part in cultural and community activities, and I am also a mother to a child who is pursuing his dream of studying medicine. When I look back at my journey from a small village with no strong support system, I feel happy where I am today. Education, when combined with belief and consistent effort, can take you far from small villages to the global stage.
The situation for students today is very different from the past. Earlier, opportunities were limited and knowing?how to explore?was one of the biggest challenges. Today, students have access to many online learning resources and strong support communities such as Kalai, ICT Academy, and other learning platforms. These communities not only provide access to knowledge but also guide students on how to discover opportunities and use them effectively.
Exploration is no longer the biggest barrier, it is now possible with the right guidance and tools. What truly matters is keeping the desire alive until you reach your goal. That goal does not have to be only education. It could be writing, entrepreneurship, art, innovation, or any passion you believe in.
But this story is not about titles or positions. It is about lessons for students:
For students and EdTech leaders alike, this journey shows why access, inclusion, resilience, and lifelong learning matter more than ever.
Sometimes, the strongest learners begin quietly, educated by hope and shaped by struggle.
About the Author
Vidhya Kummaragunta is a Senior Digital Finance Controller at Statkraft, based in Oslo. She has solid experience across core finance, controlling, master data, and business support, bringing an analytical and practical approach to her work. Her broad exposure helps her connect financial insights with day-to-day operations, creating clarity and value for stakeholders.
Outside work, Vidhya is a simple and creative person who enjoys arts and crafts, cooking, and contributing to non-profit initiatives. Family is central to her life, and she treasures the everyday moments with her son and loved ones. She finds joy in the small things and carries a thoughtful, grounded mindset into everything she does.