A modest mother’s story of passing multiple competitive examinations

BY SALIM MIYA, Bijuwar, Apr. 6: A woman from Pyuthan has achieved remarkable success by passing multiple competitive government examinations through self-study, without attending any preparatory classes.

Sita Pokhrel, 30, from Jhimruk Rural Municipality-7, Pyuthan, has successfully cleared the level sixth exam of the Nepal Oil Corporation, level seventh (technical) exam of the Nepal Electricity Authority, level fifth (technical) exam of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, level seventh exam of the Food Management and Trading Company, and level sixth exams conducted by the National Examination Board, the Teachers Service Commission, Guthi Sansthan, and Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani Limited.

Currently, she is serving as a seventh-level administrative officer at the Nepal Electricity Authority in Ramechhap.

Pokhrel attributes her success to disciplined time management and consistent self-study using modern technology. “I had only one goal: to see my name on the list of successful candidates. I managed my time well and studied while balancing my home, family, and child. That’s how I succeeded,” she said.

Despite increased responsibilities after marriage, she remained committed to her education. After marrying in 2017 in Deukhuri, Dang, continuing her studies became challenging due to growing family obligations. However, she persevered, studying regularly while caring for her five-year-old son.

Her husband, Madhav Mani Paudel, who works at the Ministry of Law in Kathmandu, has been a strong source of support throughout her journey. “My husband’s support and motivation are the bases of my success. He even helped me fill out forms for higher-level exams, which boosted my confidence,” she said.

Pokhrel completed her school education in Pyuthan, her higher secondary education in Palpa, her Bachelor’s degree in Dang, and her Master’s degree in Kathmandu. A science graduate, she relied on self-study, using digital platforms such as YouTube and ChatGPT to prepare for the exams.

“I didn’t attend any coaching classes. I used technology to gather study materials and prepared them on my own. I made notes from various resources available online and studied independently. There is plenty of material available if you know how to use technology,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of consistency, stating, “Proper use of time is key to success. Even studying a little every day can lead to achievement.”

Pokhrel managed her study schedule in the mornings, evenings, and after her child went to sleep. She also completed her Master’s degree after marriage, despite delays caused by motherhood.

“Many people ask how someone with a science background can pass public service exams. All of this is due to my husband’s encouragement,” she added.

She began preparing for public service examinations after her child grew older.

An outstanding student since childhood, Pokhrel was raised in a learning-oriented environment, as her father was a teacher at a local primary school. Among five sisters and one brother, she has emerged as a source of pride for her family and an inspiration to society.

Pokhrel said, “You don’t need extensive resources to study. Determination and time management are enough. Anyone who works hard consistently can succeed. If you have the desire to study, nothing can stop you.”