Dhaka DC Farida's initiative : Slum-dweller Salma’s dream of becoming doctor finds way
Staff Correspondent
Umme Salma, who grew up in a tiny shanty in the capital’s Madhubag area, achieved a GPA-5 in this year’s SSC examinations despite severe financial hardship. Her father, Meraj Ali, is a roadside tea vendor, and her mother, Najma Begum, works as a domestic help.
Despite their precarious income, Salma kept her academic ambitions alive, driven by a dream to become a physician. However, as the time for college admission approached, uncertainty loomed over her future due to financial constraints.
After news of her struggle surfaced in the media, Dhaka Deputy Commissioner Farida Khanam stepped forward to support the promising student.
On Wednesday, the DC handed over financial assistance to Salma at her office and assured her of full institutional backing for her higher secondary education and beyond.
Expressing relief and gratitude, Salma's father Meraj Ali said, "It is extremely difficult to run a household on the meager earnings from selling tea. Arranging money for my daughter’s education was a constant struggle. We were deeply worried about college expenses, but the Deputy Commissioner’s timely intervention has lifted a heavy burden from our shoulders."
Her mother, Najma Begum, shared that Salma has always been dedicated to her studies. "Her only dream is to become a doctor. All we wanted was to ensure her education didn't stop midway. The Deputy Commissioner's assurance has given us hope," she said.
Emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent regardless of background, DC Farida Khanam stated that financial hardship should never stand in the way of a meritocratic dream.
"Salma has proven her resilience and merit by excelling under tough circumstances. Learning about her aspiration to serve the nation as a physician, the district administration has taken responsibility for her education. We will continue providing the necessary assistance, from college admission to the completion of her studies," the Deputy Commissioner said.
She also urged affluent individuals and organizations to support underprivileged, talented students across the country so that no meritorious youth is forced to drop out due to poverty.
