Srinagar: Sahiba Shakeel, a 15-year-old girl from Ajas village here, has scripted a heartwarming story of resilience and academic excellence. Despite being 90% visually impaired, Sahiba has secured an impressive 409 out of 500 marks in her 10th class exams.
Sahiba’s path to success was marked by challenges. Born into a humble background, her father, Shakeel Ahmad Rather, is an auto-rickshaw driver, and her mother is a homemaker. Yet, financial constraints and visual impairment couldn’t dampen Sahiba’s spirit.
“Sahiba didn’t have access to coaching institutes or conventional study materials. But with unwavering support from an NGO run by Naziya Hurra, she excelled,” said Shakeel Ahmad. “Since she was six, the NGO provided her with specialized help, including recorded lectures on microchips,” he added.
“Despite her limitations, Sahiba displayed remarkable determination,” he said. “During exams, a dedicated helper transcribed her dictation. This teamwork, combined with Sahiba’s grit, led to her achievement,” he further elaborated.
“Being visually impaired, you need help for everything. I’m happy with the results and my performance. I’m grateful for the support from my family, teachers, Naziya Ji, and especially my exam helper Tafia Tariq,” Sahiba said.
“I want to work hard and empower specially-abled people. I understand their struggles,” she expressed.
Sahiba’s story transcends academic success; it embodies perseverance and the human spirit’s triumph. In a world obsessed with social media validation of academic feats, Sahiba’s journey reminds us that true success stems from grit, determination, and the support of those who believe in us.
