Category Archives: Education

AMU Researcher Dr Hifzur R. Siddique Included in the World’s First Expert Consensus Group on NUT Carcinoma

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Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Dr Hifzur R. Siddique, Department of Zoology, AMU, has been included as a part of the world expert consensus on the strategy to diagnose and treat NUT carcinoma

Aligarh:

Dr Hifzur R. Siddique, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, who has been doing research on cancer for the last several years, has been included as a part of the world expert consensus on the strategy to diagnose and treat NUT carcinoma.

Dr Siddique is the only Indian to become the part of 101 scientists from different countries, including USA, UK, China, Italy, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, Greece, Austria, Singapore, Egypt, and Russia to work on the NUT Carcinoma, which was first reported in 1991. It is a rare and highly aggressive malignancy with a dismal prognosis and a median survival of 6-9 months only.

Dr Siddique pointed out that ‘Nuclear protein of the testis’ (NUT) carcinoma is a rare and highly aggressive malignancy characterised by the rearrangement of the NUT midline carcinoma family member 1 (NUTM1) gene and less than 200 cases are diagnosed in the US each year.

He said standardised strategies for its diagnosis and treatment remained unavailable, underscoring the need for an expert consensus. To address this gap, the scientific team prepared this consensus for the diagnosis and treatment of NUT carcinoma. The team comprised medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, pathologists, nurses, molecular biologists, statisticians, and bioinformatics specialists.

The AMU researcher mentioned that the team developed the expert consensus on diagnosing and treating NUT carcinoma using a multidisciplinary approach and the guideline provides eight recommendations, addressing epidemiological characteristics, clinical and imaging manifestations, pathological findings, IHC features, molecular mechanisms and subtypes, prognosis, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for this cancer. Furthermore, an international platform has been established to disseminate NUT carcinoma knowledge and patient recruitment, providing patients and healthcare providers’ access to NUT carcinoma-related information and updates on clinical trial recruitment.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau (headline edited) / December 26th, 2024

From Cleveland to Jamia: Prof Dr M Mahfuzul Haque’s remarkable journey

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), , , ,

NEW DELHI :

Dr Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque

Jamia Millia Islamia Professor Dr Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque has made the university proud.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has granted Dr. Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque, a professor in the Department of Biotechnology, a prestigious research grant of approximately Rs 65 lakhs.

This highly competitive grant underscores Prof. Haque’s outstanding contributions to the field of molecular enzymology and will support groundbreaking research in the area of cardiovascular diseases and lung cancer.

The ICMR grant, recognised as one of the highest honours for medical research in India, will enable Prof. Haque and his team to gain more insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying iNOS involvement in lung cancer pathogenesis, potentially identifying therapeutic targets and developing novel treatment strategies for combating lung cancer. The project is intended to address significant challenges in lung cancer and aims to produce outcomes that may significantly influence healthcare practices in India and globally.

Prof. Mazhar Asif, the Vice Chancellor and Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, the Registrar of JMI congratulated Dr. Haque and remarked: “This is a moment of pride for our institution. Prof. Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque’s recognition by ICMR reflects our commitment to fostering excellence in research and innovation. We look forward to the transformative impact of this work.”

Commenting on the achievement, Prof. Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque said: “I am deeply honored to receive this grant from ICMR. It represents a significant opportunity to advance our research and contribute to improving health outcomes for millions. I am grateful to my team, my institution JMI, and ICMR for their support and encouragement.”

The grant will provide funding for three years, facilitating advanced experimentation, collaboration with leading experts, and the development of innovative approaches. This initiative aligns with ICMR’s mission to promote cutting-edge research and address pressing healthcare challenges facing India.

Dr. Haque is a renowned molecular enzymologist and his research focuses on the biochemistry, structure and function of Nitric Oxide synthase and other flavoproteins, which play a significant role in cardiovascular diseases, pulmonary hypertension and cancer.

Dr. Haque joined the Department of Biotechnology, JMI in 2017 and from 2017 to 2020, he served as Head of the Department of Biotechnology.

Prior to his appointment at JMI, Prof. Haque served as a faculty member in Molecular Medicine at the esteemed Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, USA.

He has won accolades and awards in the United States and got many funds from various funding agencies of the Government of India.

source: http://www.okhlatimes.com / The Okhla Times / Home> JMI/EDU / by The Okhla Times (edited) / November 21st, 2024

Jamia’s Dr Khalid Raza secures ₹94 lakh ICMR grant in AI and breast cancer treatment

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), World Opinion,

NEW DELHI :

Work in AI breast cancer treatment is going on and Dr Khalid Raza has bagged Rs 94 lakh ICMR grant for AI breast cancer treatment..

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has selected Dr Raza and his team for a research grant of nearly ₹94 lakh for breast cancer treatment.

The funding is given to him for his earlier contributions to using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in drug design.

Dr Raza is Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science, Jamia Millia Islamia.

AI breast cancer treatment: Dr Raza achievement
This grant is expected to play an important role in advancing innovative research aimed at using AI to develop precise and effective treatments for breast cancer.

Now, Dr Raza and his team will focus on developing advanced tools for AI-driven drug design. Their work will center on optimising drug compounds, pinpointing therapeutic targets, and creating innovative treatment strategies for breast cancer.

One such promising drug compound, DdpMPyPEPhU, already patented by Dr. Raza will be further explored under this initiative.

This research tackles key challenges in breast cancer treatment and is poised to deliver transformative results that could have a global impact on healthcare practices.

Both Professor Mazhar Asif, Vice-Chancellor of Jamia, and Professor Md Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar, congratulated Dr Raza on his outstanding achievement.

“This is a moment of great pride for Jamia. Dr. Raza’s recognition by ICMR highlights the university’s dedication to promoting research excellence and innovation,” said the VC.

Groundbreaking work in AI breast cancer treatment
His groundbreaking work showcases Jamia’s vital contributions to integrating AI in healthcare research, said VC Asif.

Dr Raza said: “I am honoured to be selected for this ICMR grant. This is an opportunity to further our research in AI-driven drug design and make a meaningful contribution to improving health outcomes for millions. I am deeply grateful to my research team, collaborators, and ICMR for their continuous support.”

The three-year funding will facilitate advanced experimentation, foster collaboration with leading experts, and accelerate the development of innovative solutions for breast cancer treatment. This initiative aligns closely with ICMR’s mission to support cutting-edge research addressing India’s critical healthcare challenges.

AI breast cancer treatment: Dr Raza a distinguished researcher
Dr Raza is a distinguished researcher in the application of AI in healthcare, focusing on designing and optimising drug compounds through AI-based multitarget docking, molecular simulations, and genomics-driven personalised medicine.
Award and grants are not something new for Dr Raza. Stanford University recognised him among the world’s top 2 per cent scientists from 2021-2023.

Dr Raza has served in various academic and administrative roles at Jamia.

He has published over 140 research articles in prestigious journals, conference proceedings, 14 authored/edited books, and held notable positions, including ICCR Chair Visiting Professor of Computer and Information Sciences at Ain Shams University, Egypt, and is an honorary research fellow at INTI International University, Malaysia.

Dr Raza also serves as Associate Editor for PeerJ Computer Science and Guest Editor for esteemed journals like npj Precision Oncology, Natural Product Communications, and Mini-Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry. His remarkable contributions to the scientific community and Jamia are truly remarkable!

This grant represents a convergence of excellence, with the potential to revolutionise breast cancer treatment and affirm Jamia’s status as a hub for transformative research.

source: http://www.okhlatimes.com / The Okhla Times / Home> JMI/EDU / by The Okhla Times (edited) / November 30th, 2024

Adila Khanam – PG student (Virology) makes Jamia proud, awarded the prestigious Princeton Foundation for Peace & Learning National Scholarship (USA) 2024-25.

Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Science & Technology, Women/Girls(since May26-2021)

NEW DELHI :

Adila Khanam

Adila Khanam, currently a second-year M.Sc. Virology student at the Multidisciplinary Centre for Advanced Research and Studies (MCARS) at Jamia Millia Islamia, has been awarded the prestigious Princeton Foundation for Peace & Learning National Scholarship (USA) 2024-25.

The Foundation is dedicated to empowering young women by providing holistic education and mentorship. As part of the Princeton Foundation’s flagship initiative, GOAL, Adila will benefit from the financial assistance as well as extensive mentorship and internship opportunities, which include eligibility for both corporate and research internships.

Adila Khanam reacts
Adila expressed her joy regarding the accomplishment and said: “I am excited about the USA-based internship and the opportunity to learn from different mentors who will shape both my personal and professional development. I am deeply grateful to my mentors, especially Dr. Jawed Iqbal, whose unwavering guidance and mentorship have been invaluable throughout my academic journey”

She conveyed her sincere gratitude to Dr Mohan Joshi, Assistant Professor, for introducing her to this remarkable scholarship opportunity, as well as to Prof. Mohammad Husain, Director of MCARS, and the other faculty members of the centre for their encouragement and invaluable mentorship.

In another development on the campus a few days ago, the Faculty of Dentistry organised a workshop on ‘Soft Skills in Dental Practice’ on 5th December 2024, for its fifty BDS Interns of the Batch 2020.

The workshop was conducted by Prof. Poonam Sood Loomba, Professor and Head, Microbiology Department, G. B Pant Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, New Delhi. She is a FAIMER Fellow from CMC Ludhiana and is actively involved in medical education. She is also the National Medical Commission Convenor for the Regional Centre, Medical Education Department, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi.

In the inaugural session, Prof. Keya Sircar, Dean, Faculty of Dentistry welcomed the gathering and emphasised on the need of soft skills in dental practice.

The organising chairperson, Prof. Ashu Bhardwaj, highlighted the origin of the term “soft skills” in the U.S Army in late 1960s, when apart from technical know-how, leadership values and emotional intelligence were considered to be important adjuncts to motivate soldiers. She made the interns aware that over the next few months, they would be stepping into the real world where adhering to soft skills would be a feather in their professional cap.

In her lecture, Prof. Loomba drew the attention of the participants to various aspects of soft skills, such as attitude, ethics and communication. Speaking on the significance of verbal and non-verbal communication, she emphasized on active listening at length, taking informed consent, breaking communication barriers and maintaining ethical standards.

The workshop was conducted through role plays of clinical case scenarios on convincing a patient about the importance of sterilisation, counselling a HIV reactive patient, taking informed consent regarding placement of implants, explaining treatment, and counselling a patient for compliance to dentures, obtaining cooperation of the mother of an anxious child, breaking bad news, communicating the importance of written records and dealing with an agitated patient.

The interns actively participated in the role plays with dynamic inputs from the resource person and the organising team. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by the Organising Secretary, Prof. Zeba Jafri.The event was organized by faculty members – Prof. Ashu Bhardwaj, Prof. Anuradha Sharma, Prof. Zeba Jafri, Prof. Nishat Sultan, Prof. Anupriya Wadhwa, Prof. Kirti Chawla and Dr. Nupur Gupta under the patronship of the Dean, Faculty of Dentistry, JMI, Prof. Keya Sircar.

source: http://www.okhlatimes.com / The Okhla Times / Home> JMI/EDU / by The Okhla Times (edited) / December 10th, 2024

Sultan Ul Uloom Public School Hosts the 360 Exquisite Exhibition: A Celebration of Student Talent

Amazing Feats, Education, Science & Technology,

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

The exhibition’s name, “360 Exquisite,” was carefully chosen to represent the school’s well-rounded approach to nurturing the diverse talents of its students.

 Sultan Ul Uloom Public School Hosts the 360 Exquisite Exhibition: A Celebration of Student Talent

On Tuesday, December 24, 2024, Sultan Ul Uloom Public School (SUPS), located in Banjara Hills, hosted the much anticipated “360 Exquisite Exhibition.” The event was a proud showcase of the creativity, innovation, and brilliance displayed by students from Nursery to Class 10.

The exhibition’s name, “360 Exquisite,” was carefully chosen to represent the school’s well-rounded approach to nurturing the diverse talents of its students. The event highlighted the hard work and dedication of the students, while also reflecting the school’s commitment to developing intellectual and artistic abilities. It served as a platform to demonstrate the students’ boundless imagination and problem-solving skills.

The Chief Guest for the exhibition was Mr. Waliulla, Chairman of the Sultan-ul-Uloom Education Society (SUES). Esteemed community members also graced the occasion as Guests of Honor.

Mr. Zafer Javeed Sahab, Honorary Secretary of SUES and Chairman of SUPS, addressed the gathering and noted that the exhibition was an excellent opportunity for students to display their projects in a variety of fields. These included science, social science, mathematics, arts, crafts, artificial intelligence, and robotics.

The exhibition was a testament to the students’ critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative spirit. Each display offered a unique perspective, developed under the guidance of the school’s dedicated teachers. The innovative ideas and artistic expressions seen throughout the event demonstrated the remarkable potential of these young minds, leaving attendees inspired and hopeful for their future achievements.

Ms. Samerfatima, Principal of Sultan Ul Uloom Public School, welcomed the guests and spoke proudly of the school’s continuous progress. She highlighted the institution’s dedication to providing quality education and achieving new milestones. Ms. Samerfatima also expressed her appreciation for the teachers who have mentored the students and for the parents whose unwavering support and encouragement play a crucial role in the students’ success.

The Sultan-ul-Uloom Education Society (SUES), with its visionary leadership, continues to create an environment where education thrives. Through its tireless efforts and commitment to excellence, SUES has laid the foundation for a future where students are equipped to achieve great things.

This exhibition not only showcased the talent of the students but also underscored SUPS’s ongoing commitment to shaping the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders.

source: http://www.munsifdaily.com / Munsif 24×7 / Home> Education / by Fauzia Farhana / December 24th, 2024

Investiture Ceremony at Madina Schools: Emphasizing Holistic Development for Future Leaders

Education,

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Madina Schools held its investiture ceremony at their Himayatnagar premises in Hyderabad, where young leaders were entrusted with responsibilities that symbolize a commitment to both their educational community and personal growth.

Hyderabad: 

Madina Schools held its investiture ceremony at their Himayatnagar premises in Hyderabad, where young leaders were entrusted with responsibilities that symbolize a commitment to both their educational community and personal growth.

The event, held on Friday morning, saw the newly elected Student Council members being presented with badges and sashes by esteemed guests including Rema Rajeshwari, IPS, DIG Women Safety Wing, Telangana, Secretary Ms. Sabiha Farzana, and Directors Ms. Maria Arifuddin and Mr. KM Fasihuddin.

Rema Rajeshwari, the Chief Guest of the ceremony, inspired the young leaders to embrace their roles with enthusiasm and dedication.

In her address, she stressed the importance of responsible leadership, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to physical fitness, mental and spiritual health as essential components of success in education and life.

“It is the responsibility of both parents and teachers to guide the youngsters about the importance of physical, mental, and spiritual health, which are key to the overall development of a child,” said Rema Rajeshwari, IPS, DIG Women Safety Wing, Telangana.

The student leaders took an oath, led by Director Maria Arifuddin, pledging to work together to foster a positive and supportive school environment. They committed to promoting academic excellence, creativity, and social responsibility, aligning with the school’s vision of holistic education.

The ceremony marked a significant step in encouraging students to develop as future leaders who are well-rounded, compassionate, and ready to make meaningful contributions to society.

source: http://www.munsifdaily.com / Munsif 24×7 / Home> Education / by Munsif Web Desk / August 09th, 2024

Jamia Hamdard Establishes Asian Federation of Societies for Alternatives to Animal Experiments

Education, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

NEW DELHI :

New Delhi:

The valedictory function of the 4th Asian Congress for Alternatives to Animal Experiments was held at Jamia Hamdard Convention Centre where Prof. (Dr.) M. Afshar Alam, Vice-Chancellor, Jamia Hamdard was the Chief Guest of the programme. Organizing secretary Prof. S. Raisuddin informed that this congress is being held for the first time in India. During this congress, the founding members of the society and representatives from India, China, Japan, and South Korea signed a joint declaration to establish the Asian Federation of Societies for Alternatives to Animal Experiments (AFSAAE).

Well-wishers from societies working for alternatives from America, Europe, and Sri Lanka also wished good link to the foundation. All the representatives were felicitated by the Organising Secretary. Prof. Y.K. Gupta and Dr. M.A. Akbarsha graced the occasion as Guest of Honour.

Prof. Y.K. Gupta urged the scientists to understand the pain of animals while using them for scientific experiments. Dr. Akbarsha announced the next meeting to be held at Hyderabad.

Prof. Raisuddin presented a detailed report of three days deliberations during the conference. He also announced various awards for best presentations by young scientists.

Dr. Christian Pellevoisin, Scientific Director, MatTek & CEO Urbilateria France sponsored best poster presentation awards and cash prizes to the budding scientists.

Dr. Kristie Sullivan, Vice President, Education and Outreach, Institute for In Vitro Sciences, USA and Prof Winfried Neuhaus, member of the Austrian Commission for Animal Experimentation also appreciated the successful organisation of the Congress.

Prof. (Dr.) M. Afshar Alam, Vice Chancellor congratulated the Organising committee members for the successful organisation of the conference. He appreciated the patronage of Mr. Hammad Ahmed, Chancellor, Jamia Hamdard and financial support of Hamdard National Foundation along with other funding agencies for enabling Jamia Hamdard to develop alternative models of animal experiments. Programme ended with vote of thanks by the Organising Secretary and National Anthem.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / December 16th, 2024

Mohalla Coaching Centres Run at Masjids in Telangana

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Hyderabad:

Little girls and boys carrying the school bags also rush to the Masjids along with the believers but with twin objectives – Namaz and Tuition.

After Salah, children move to the Masjid’s basement in three different rooms, where they are taught Mathematics, English and Telugu by different tutors.

Usually one associates Masjids with learning of theological subjects – Arabic, Quran and Urdu.  But at Masjid-e-Meraj, the things are different. They are now after-school Mohalla tuition centres.

It was initiated by The Quran Foundation (TQF), a non-profit organisation run by a team of professionals working in the field of information technology, education and healthcare.

Neighbourhood networks play a crucial role. Masjid management committees, tutors and students are drawn from within Masjids’ neighbourhood. The committee ensures regular attendance, quality tuition and timely discussions about performance of both students and tutors.

Syed Munawwar, TQF general secretary, says there are 2500 students studying in 50 Masjids across Telangana. Most of them are either students of government schools or low-cost private schools, popularly known as budget schools that have a mushroom growth in Hyderabad.

The idea, conceptualised in 2020 in consultation with Masjid management committees, is to have free tuition classes for the students who find it difficult to pay school fees and can’t afford private tuitions.

WhattsApp groups for parents and tutors are created. Information connecting to the students’ performance is shared with parents. Regular attendance is ensured by incentive prizes. Closer ties between tutors, students, parents and Masjid committees create a conducive atmosphere in neighbourhoods. Comprehension about core subjects has improved in the students.

TQF, headquartered in Hyderabad, is a registered non-profit organisation committed to fostering the educational, economic, social, and cultural advancement of marginalised and underprivileged communities.

TQF operates in collaboration with other NGOs, combining efforts and resources to implement programmes that resonate with core objectives. Through collective action, they strive to enhance livelihoods, nurture intellects, and catalyse positive transformation within society.

Educational development, economic development, social development, health and wellbeing are the core areas TQF works in.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / December 13th, 2024

Khan Bahadur Abdul Karim Babukhan: A prominent aristocrat of par excellence

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Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

In year 1945, he was conferred with the title of “Khan Bahadur” by British Viceroy

Hyderabad: 

In the 1920s after his father’s demise, Khan Bahadur Abdul Karim Babukhan took over the construction business and in later years attained remarkable credentials for his contribution towards the infrastructure and industrial development in the growth of erstwhile “Hyderabad State” during the rule of 7th Asaf Jah, Nizam Of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan Bahadur.

He established “Hyderabad Construction Company” in the early 1930s under which, many architectural and engineering wonders were constructed under the rule and order of Nizam of Hyderabad as listed under.

  • Arts College – Osmania University, Hyderabad.
  • Hyderabad House – Nizam’s Palace, Delhi.
  • Gandhi Bhavan – Hyderabad, was his private property, later gifted to the Congress party for its headquarters.
  • Soan Bridge – Across the River Godavari , Adilabad.
  • Kadam Dam – Adilabad.
  • Tungabhadra Dam – Substantial part of it, presently in Karnataka State.
  • Ramagundam Power Station – First phase, Karimnagar.

A file photo of the Arts College building, which is considered to be the face of Osmania University.

Hyderabad House [Twitter]

Industries attributed and promoted by him

  • Nizam Sugar Factory – Nizamabad (He held a large portion of shareholding in it).
  • Sir Silk Mills
  • Sirpur Paper Mill
  • Hyderabad Vanaspati
  • Hyderabad Vegetable Oil Mill
  • Singerini collieries , etc.

In the year 1930, he was conferred with the title of “Khan Sahib” by British Viceroy “Lord Irwin” on behalf of King George V of England.

In the year 1930, he was conferred with the title of “KHAN SAHIB” by British Viceroy “Lord Irwin” on behalf of KING GEORGE THE V of England.

In the year 1945, he was conferred with the title of “KHAN BAHADUR” by British Viceroy “Viscount Wavell” on behalf of KING GEORGE THE VI of England.

“Khan Bahadur” title holds a higher rank and position and had superseded the earlier one “Khan Sahib”. It’s very rare to confer two titles to the same person.

Both titles were conferred for his recognition towards CIvil/Public services.

He attained high regard and respect, and maintained close relationships with prominent dignitaries, nobles, members of royal families, politicians, and businessmen.

He was appointed as Honorary Special Magistrate, Secunderabad.
He was appointed as a Member of the Governer’s Staff as Oregon’s Ambassador to Hyderabad.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Hyderabad / by Guest Contributor, posted by Sameer Khan / September 11th, 2022

From Brick Kiln to Medical College: The Inspirational Journey of Sarfaraz

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Purba Medinipur District, WEST BENGAL :

A labourer’s son in West Bengal defies all odds to achieve his dream of becoming a doctor

New Delhi :

In an era where mobile phones are often criticised for their harmful impact on society, the story of 21-year-old Sarfaraz from East Medinipur, West Bengal, shines as a beacon of hope. Once a labourer carrying bricks under the scorching sun, Sarfaraz’s remarkable journey to gaining admission into the prestigious Nil Ratan Sarkar Medical College for an MBBS degree showcases grit, determination, and the transformative power of education.

Born into a family with limited financial resources, Sarfaraz’s childhood was marked by hardships. His father, also a labourer, earned a meagre daily wage, barely enough to feed the family of six. Despite these challenges, Sarfaraz excelled in his studies, harbouring the dream of joining the National Defence Academy (NDA).

An unfortunate accident dashed his NDA aspirations, but Sarfaraz did not let despair consume him. “Life was never easy, but giving up was never an option,” he said.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought a glimmer of hope in Sarfaraz’s life. With financial assistance from the government, his family bought a smartphone. This device became Sarfaraz’s lifeline, as he used free YouTube tutorials and online ed-tech platforms to prepare for the NEET, India’s highly competitive medical entrance exam.

“I studied through free YouTube videos initially and then enrolled in an online course with a concession in fees. It changed everything for me,” Sarfaraz said.

For three years, Sarfaraz juggled gruelling physical labour and relentless academic preparation. His daily routine involved carrying 400 bricks under the blazing sun for a wage of Rs 300, followed by seven hours of uninterrupted study.

“My father and I would work from morning until afternoon. After that, I would come home and dive into my books. It was difficult, but I never lost sight of my dream,” Sarfaraz explained.

In 2023, Sarfaraz’s NEET score qualified him for a dental college, but the prohibitive costs forced him to forgo the opportunity. Undeterred, he decided to make a final attempt at NEET in 2024.

“I thought, I’ve worked so hard — let’s try one more time. This was my last chance. If I hadn’t succeeded, I would have given up,” he said.

Sarfaraz scored an impressive 677 out of 720 in NEET 2024, securing his place in Nil Ratan Sarkar Medical College.

Behind Sarfaraz’s unwavering determination was his mother’s dream of seeing her son become a doctor. Her sacrifices inspired him to push through every obstacle.

“My mother always wanted me to be a doctor. I promised myself that I would make her dream come true,” Sarfaraz said, his voice filled with emotion.

Now donning a white coat and stethoscope, Sarfaraz is a source of pride not only for his family but also for his entire village.

Sarfaraz’s success has brought hope to his village, where many children often abandon their studies due to financial difficulties. Determined to give back, he has started mentoring young students.

“When I become a doctor, I want to work among the poor. My village folks have supported me throughout this journey, and now it’s my turn to support them,” he said.

Sarfaraz’s story has inspired countless people. His former teacher, who guided him in his early years, remarked, “Sarfaraz always had a spark. Despite his circumstances, he was determined to learn and grow. His success is a testament to his perseverance.”

A fellow villager, moved by his journey, said, “He has proven that no obstacle is insurmountable. He is the pride of our village.”

Sarfaraz’s journey from a labourer at a brick kiln to a medical student serves as a reminder of the potential within every individual, regardless of the circumstances. His story resonates deeply, offering hope to those who dream big despite the odds stacked against them.

“Dreams do come true if you work hard enough,” Sarfaraz said with a smile.

As Sarfaraz begins his medical education, his journey is not just a personal victory but a source of inspiration for countless others. It proves that with determination, resilience, and the right opportunities, even the toughest challenges can be overcome.

source: http://www.clarionindia.com / Clarion India / Home> Editors Pick> Indian Muslim / by Mohammad Alamullah, Clarion India / November 26th, 2024