Undaunted Rafiqul

Physically challenged Rafiqul Islam, who defied all odds to continue his studies, is attending this year's Junior School Certificate (JSC) examinations writing his answer scripts with his right toes.

Rafiqul, son of Nasir Uddin of Pakerhat village in Khansama upazila, also a student of Pakerhat Kamil Madrasa has never considered his disability as a barrier for his studies.

While visiting his examination centre at Khansama Fazil Madrasa recently, this correspondent found him writing his answer script, holding the pen with his right toes.

"My son was born without hands," said Nasir Uddin, who runs a betel leaf shop in front of Khansama Upazila Health Complex.

"Seeing his keen interest to learn and educate himself we enrolled him at a local madrasa at the age of five," Nasir added.

Reazul Islam Shah, principal of Pakerhat Kamil Madrasa, said many can get inspiration from the indomitable boy, who stood fifth among his classmates and is always attentive to his studies.

Rafiqul's mother Rubina Begum said besides writing Rafiqul is good at drawing. Her son needs help while bathing and wearing  clothes only, she added.

Replying to a question, Rafiqul said despite his physical barriers, he wants to study at a university to stand beside the disabled like him.