Over a decade ago, when no school in Baramulla district was willing to admit Tufail Ahmad due to his physical constraints, no one could have imagined that the same boy would one day emerge as an inspiration for thousands. Today, Tufail stands tall among achievers, having scored an impressive 473 marks in the recently declared Class 10th examination, despite being born without hands. A resident of Sangri Colony in Baramulla, Tufail’s journey is one of tenacity, resilience, and determination. Born with a congenital disability, he has never allowed his physical limitations to define his life or restrict his dreams. “I never let my disability become an obstacle in my life. I believe God has created everyone with a purpose, and I am here to fulfil mine,” said Tufail.
Initially, Tufail learned to write using his feet. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, he dedicated himself to mastering the skill of writing with his elbow, a feat that many would find unimaginable. Today, not only can he write fluently with his elbow, but he also takes pride in his handwriting, which his friends and acquaintances say is even better than that of many able-bodied individuals. His remarkable achievement has also brought pride to Islamia High School Azad Gunj Baramulla, the institution that nurtured his potential and played a crucial role in shaping his academic foundation.
“Indeed it is a pride moment for the institution,” said Principal Islamia High School Baramulla. “We put all our efforts in polishing his skills and his result is a big satisfaction for the school authorities,” he added. Despite being offered the option of a scribe to assist him during exams, Tufail declined. “I wanted to prove that I could do it on my own. Using a writer would have felt like I was taking a shortcut. I wanted my success to be mine alone” he said. “It’s a satisfactory result, though I was expecting more,” Tufail said modestly.
Hailing from a humble background, Tufail’s father works as a school bus driver for a private institution in Baramulla. His family, though limited in resources, has always stood firmly behind him. “Tufail was born with this condition, but we never saw it as a weakness,” said his father. “It’s a long road ahead, but this success is the first step on the ladder to excellence,” said his father. Local residents have praised Tufail’s success and called upon the administration to recognise and support such students. “The government should reward and encourage such inspiring individuals so they can continue their journey without obstacles,” said Fayaz Ahmad, a local resident.
