Jhalokathi, Aug. 13 (V7N) — A ninth-grade student died at her home in Jhalokathi town on Tuesday night, with her family saying she had been deeply distressed over disappointing examination results.
The student, who studied at a local school, lived with her family in the Araddar Potti area of the town. Family members said she had been upset since the publication of her recent examination results, which they said had fallen short of her expectations.
According to the family, she had become increasingly distressed before the incident. Relatives and local residents later found her unresponsive and rushed to take her to hospital, but she died before receiving medical treatment.
Her body has been kept at the morgue of Jhalokathi Sadar Hospital.
The incident has left the family, classmates and local community in mourning.
Police have begun the necessary legal procedures in connection with the death.
Experts urge families and teachers to prioritise students’ emotional wellbeing
Child psychologists and education specialists say examination results should never be treated as a measure of a student's worth or future. They urge parents and teachers to avoid harsh criticism, comparisons with other students or excessive pressure over academic performance.
Experts recommend that parents listen calmly when children are disappointed with their results and allow them to express their feelings without fear of judgement. Teachers, meanwhile, should pay attention to sudden changes in a student's behaviour, attendance, academic performance or social interaction and involve parents or appropriate professionals when concerns arise.
They also emphasise that students should be reminded that a disappointing result can be improved and does not determine their entire future. Creating an environment where young people feel comfortable seeking help is considered an important part of preventing such tragedies.
A message to students, parents and teachers
For students, a poor result is a setback—not the end of the road. There are always opportunities to learn, improve and try again.
Parents and teachers should remember that encouragement can be more powerful than criticism. Instead of asking, “Why did you get such a result?”, they can ask, “What difficulties did you face, and how can we help you?”
If a student appears unusually withdrawn, hopeless, severely distressed or talks about not wanting to live, the concern should be taken seriously. The student should not be left alone, and a trusted adult, mental-health professional or emergency service should be contacted promptly.
Academic success matters, but a child's safety and wellbeing matter far more.
END/MAI/SMA/
