Siyam Mia, a determined and talented individual with special needs, has received a one-time financial scholarship from Khoborer Kagoj Bandhujon-CWF under the “Indomitable Talent Scholarship 2024” program. The scholarship was made possible by the financial support of the Children Watch Foundation (CWF) and handed over at a ceremony held at the Sarishabari Press Club auditorium on Thursday (June 27).
The event was presided over by Sarishabari Press Club President Solaiman Hossain Horek and featured Advocate Yusuf Ali, President of the District Press Club, as the chief guest. Other speakers included journalists ASM Zulfiqar Rahman, Jahurul Islam Thandu, Mizanur Rahman, and Ismail Hossain, President of the Sarishabari Reporters Club, among others. Siyam Mia and his mother, Josna Begum, were also present.
Overcoming Challenges Through Determination
Born without arms, Siyam is the third child of day laborer parents, Jinnah Mia and Josna Begum, from Udnapara village in Dowail Union. Despite his physical limitations, Siyam developed an interest in education while attending school with his siblings and friends. With the support of teachers, he learned to write with his feet.
Siyam began his academic journey at the BRAC Shishu Niketan School in Udnapara, passing his Primary Education Completion Examination in 2018. He later enrolled at Chaparkona Mahesh Chandra School and College, where he excelled in his studies. In 2021, he successfully passed the Junior School Certificate (JSC) examination, further fueling his passion for learning.
This year, Siyam participated in the SSC exams independently, writing with his feet. Overcoming poverty and physical challenges, he achieved a GPA of 3.83 in the Humanities group, demonstrating extraordinary determination and strength.
Voices from the Event
Speakers at the event highlighted Siyam’s journey as an inspiration to many. They emphasized the importance of supporting other underprivileged and differently-abled individuals, urging government and private organizations, as well as affluent members of society, to step forward.
Expressing gratitude, Siyam said, “I was born without hands. My parents took me to school, and with my teachers’ support, I learned to write with my feet. I passed the SSC exams using my feet and dream of becoming a high-ranking government official.” He also expressed his happiness at receiving the scholarship, his first from Khoborer Kagoj.
Siyam’s mother, Josna Begum, shared her emotions, saying, “I have endured a lot to educate my son. Only a mother can understand the struggles of a child born without hands. I am overjoyed that my son has passed SSC with his feet and will now enroll in college. His dream of becoming a government officer brings me immense happiness.”
Due to financial constraints, Siyam’s education was once interrupted. However, with waived tuition fees and support from his school, he resumed his studies. Recognized for his achievements, Siyam’s family, relatives, neighbors, and teachers expressed their pride and joy.
Call for Continued Support
Despite his remarkable achievements, Siyam’s family and community called on the government and affluent individuals in society to support his higher education. They believe that with continued assistance, Siyam can achieve his dream and serve as a beacon of inspiration for others facing similar challenges.
