Beacon of hope: Dhubri girl shines in HSLC by writing papers with toe

Dhubri: Arija Ahmed, a specially-abled girl from Kurshakati village in Dhubri district, has proven that determination knows no bounds.

She secured first division with a letter in Assam’s High School Leaving Certificate Examination (HSLC), the result of which was announced last month.

Arija, daughter of Ayub Ali and Raushanara Begum, was a student of PM Sri Raniganj Higher Secondary School. At the age of 2, she suffered from a severe fever that resulted in permanent paralysis of both her hands. Despite this, she got admitted in the school and started practising to write using her toes.

“After a few months, she learned to write with her toe, and thereafter she gradually improved. In the HSLC, Arija wrote the papers with her toe,” her father said.

Residents Kurshakati village expressed pride in her achievements, noting her unbreakable spirit and determination to overcome challenges. They described her as an inspiration to others, demonstrating an indomitable willpower that defies doubts about her abilities.

When asked about her future plans and ambition, Arija told TOI that she has already got admission in the art stream in the same school.

“My aim is to become an IAS officer,” Arija said, adding that she plans to prepare for the UPSC exams after completing her higher secondary education and graduation.