Staff Correspondent

In a unique gesture to encourage academic excellence, Dhaka Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Farida Khanam has written personalized congratulatory letters to 25 brilliant students from Dhaka district who achieved outstanding results in this year’s Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and equivalent examinations.

Along with the letters, books, flowers, and sweets were sent to the homes of these meritorious students as gifts from the district administration. The initiative was confirmed by the Dhaka Deputy Commissioner’s office on Saturday afternoon.

In her heartfelt letter to the students, DC Farida Khanam wrote: "Dear student, when this letter reaches your hands, you might wonder why a Deputy Commissioner is writing individually to a student. Because in you, I see not just today’s brilliant student, but an enlightened human being of tomorrow."

Extending warm congratulations on behalf of the Dhaka district administration, the Deputy Commissioner noted that the phenomenal success of the students has brought unique glory to Dhaka district. She reminded them that their triumph is not only the result of personal intellect and sleepless nights of hard work, but also the manifestation of the unwavering trust and sacrifices made by their parents and teachers.

Encouraging the students as they step into higher secondary education, DC Farida wrote, "Crossing this secondary school milestone, you are now stepping onto a vast horizon of possibilities. However, remember that this is not a destination, but merely the beginning of a cosmic journey. In this new chapter of higher secondary studies, open yourself up to being more curious, courageous, and thirsty for knowledge."

She further advised students not to confine themselves within the framework of just achieving a GPA-5, but to immerse themselves in information technology, human values, and deep patriotism. "Awaken your inner potential and mold yourself into a person who will not only build a career, but lead the creation of an advanced and prosperous Bangladesh of tomorrow with your talent. Never think of yourself as small; let your dreams touch the sky," she added.

Reflecting on the future, the letter continued, "Perhaps many years from now, you will read this letter again—when your parents' dreams surrounding you are fulfilled and your life's journey has advanced far ahead. On that day, you should be able to look back and say, I respected my dream, maintained the dignity of my talent, and tried to become a good person."

The unexpected congratulatory letters and gifts from the Deputy Commissioner sparked immense joy and excitement among the students and school authorities. This initiative draws historical parallels to 2002, when then Prime Minister Khaleda Zia similarly wrote direct letters and sent two books as gifts to students who secured talent pool scholarships.