Financial struggles threaten bright student's dream of becoming a doctor

Arifa Akhter, a promising student from a modest background in Bagerhat, has secured admission to Barishal Government Medical College. However, her dream of becoming a doctor is now at risk due to her family's dire financial condition.

Arifa is the eldest daughter of Sheikh Asaduzzaman, a van puller, and Hamima Akhter Hima, a small-scale tailor. Despite living in poverty, her family has always prioritised her education, making sacrifices to support her academic pursuits.

Growing up in extreme hardship, Arifa consistently excelled in her studies, earning both primary and junior scholarships. Her passion for education and the desire to fulfil her father's dream of seeing her become a doctor has driven her to overcome significant obstacles.

"My daughter's success means everything to me. I cannot even write my own name. When she was born, I could not sign the papers at the hospital. Since then, I have dreamt of making her a doctor. Allah has fulfilled my dream, but now I cannot afford her admission fees," said Asaduzzaman.

To ensure Arifa could focus on her studies, Asaduzzaman would peddle her on his van nearly 30 kilometres daily between their home in Kochua and Bagerhat Government Girls' School. Later, he rented a small house in Bagerhat to minimise the travel burden on her.

Arifa's dedication to her studies paid off. She achieved a GPA-5 (golden A+) in her SSC exams in 2022 and again in her HSC exams in 2024, earning her a spot at Barishal Government Medical College after passing the medical admission test.

However, her family's financial burdens have grown heavier. They mortgaged jewellery to secure Tk2 lakh in loans to support her education. Now, they are unable to cover her medical college admission fees.

Her mother, Hima, shared the emotional toll of their struggles, saying, "We often went hungry to support her education. Becoming a doctor has been her dream since childhood. While we are proud of her success, the pressure of loans leaves us unable to afford her admission fees."

The family is now appealing to the public for help, hoping for assistance from individuals or organisations who can help Arifa continue her education.

Dr Md Fuad Hasan, who, along with his colleagues, supported Arifa with educational expenses and coaching, praised her determination.

"Arifa has immense potential. It is a joyous moment that she has been accepted into medical school. We hope those in a position to help will step forward to support her."

As Arifa faces this critical financial hurdle, her family's hopes rest on the support of others to help her achieve her dream of becoming a doctor.