Disability is no barrier

Born without hands, Touhidul Islam is taking part in this year's Primary Terminal Examinations, writing answer scripts with legs.

Touhid, 12, is the second of the two children of Fazlul Haque and Ratna Khatun of Garotto village under Digor union at Ghatail upazila in Tangail.

When Touhid was only four, his father went to Dubai for earning.

Later his mother helped him to write letters with his legs and at the age of seven, Touhid was admitted to a school for children with challenges at Chandusi in Ghatail, eight kilometres from the house.

Rafiqul Bari Khan, founder director of the school, himself is a visually impaired person, hailing from adjacent Kalihati upazila. 

Ratna accompanies her son to school daily, walking one kilometre to the nearby Kadomtali bus stand and then taking a seven-kilometre ride by bus or three-wheeler.

Despite physical challenge, Touhid loves playing and often plays with other boys in the field, said Ratna.

"Touhid's father loves him too much. On several occasions, he returned home with a lot of gifts for him.

"We have already married off our daughter Laila. Now we want to make Touhid able for a decent life. Touhid can do most of his works with his legs although he needs help in some works like using water in toilet and wearing clothes," said the mother.

Hafiza Khatun, a class teacher of Touhid, said he is attentive in study and can write with leg quickly.

"I have taken necessary preparations to do well in the exams. I want to be a proud school teacher in future," Touhid said.

Rafiqul Bari Khan, who had lost his eyesight in a wrong treatment by a quack at the age of four, later vowed to do something for the welfare of the children with challenges and with all his savings, he established the school in 2003.

"Besides Touhid, two hearing impaired children and another mentally challenged one from the school are taking part in this year's primary terminal examinations. With proper care and a little inspiration, challenged children can also grow well and contribute to the family and society," Rafiq said.