Kerala adult literacy topper Karthyayani Amma dies at age 101

In recognition of her passion for learning, the state government had presented a laptop after the widow expressed her intention to learn English. Karthyayani was then among 60,000 people in the state who had been initiated into the world of letters through over half-a-dozen literacy schemes run by the Mission.

Karthyayani had never been to school as she worked as a domestic help and cleaning staff. Her husband Krishna Pillai had died in 1961, her children were busy with their own lives and she was ready to lead her own. Her daughter Amminiamma, 51, inspired her mother to join the classes. Amminiamma was also a school dropout.

Deeply saddened by the passing of Karthyayani Amma, who made history by becoming the oldest learner under the State Literacy Mission. She served as an inspiring role model for many, showing unwavering determination to pursue education despite challenges. Her demise is a… pic.twitter.com/1mXVRvWD7a

— Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) October 11, 2023

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in his condolence message, said Karthyayani Amma had been Kerala’s pride and a model person. She had inspired hundreds of school dropouts, said Vijayan.

In 2020, Karthyayani Amma’s record as the oldest student of the state literacy mission was beaten by Bhageerathi Amma, a 105-year-old great-grandmother, who cleared the 4-level education, with 74.5 per cent marks.