Asaduzzaman, who lost his legs to polio as a child, always dreamed of going to school. His enthusiasm was not shared by his family, who, like most families in Bangladesh, view the disabled as a burden. But this young man, now aged 27, decided to drag himself to school one day to Bhangamor Government Primary School and there too faced discrimination because he would sit on the floor on the corridor outside the classroom. He may have been a spectacle to his classmates and teacher, but he went to school every day and was eventually allowed to sit in the classroom. Asaduzzaman went on to win a scholarship when in Class V and finished his Secondary School Certificate from Kharibari High School and graduated in computer science at college. That he supported his own education expenses by tutoring others is worth taking note of.

What is even more impressive is that Asad founded the Disabled Welfare Association in Bhogdanga union in Kurigram Sadar upazila where he is currently the director. This organisation did a survey of the union and found that there were some 600 people with disabilities. We are in awe of his determination that led to the purchase of some land and finally establishment of a school for both the disabled and non-disabled. 

Yes, his story is one of inspiration and struggle. It merely goes to show that people who are physically disadvantaged are not necessarily a burden on society. It is our preconceived notion that the disabled are of no use and can play no role in society. Asad's story blows that notion to smithereens and we hail this young man's determination to rise to the challenge posed by people in general. We hope his efforts are given due recognition and the school that now has nearly 200 students receives support from the local administration.