Rangpur, July 3 (V7N) – Defying a congenital physical disability, 18-year-old Poly Rani from Kaunia Upazila in Bangladesh's Rangpur district is taking the 2026 Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examinations by writing with her right foot instead of her hands.

The youngest of six siblings, Poly is the daughter of Rupali Rani from Gadai village and a Humanities student at Kaunia College. She is sitting for the examinations at the Kaunia Women's College examination centre.

Poly's mother, Rupali Rani, said her daughter lost her father at an early age but never gave up on her dreams despite numerous hardships. Born without fingers and with underdeveloped, curved hands, Poly is unable to hold a pen. However, determined to pursue her education, she began practising writing with her right foot in childhood. Years of dedication have enabled her to write at a normal pace.

She said Poly initially faced ridicule from classmates after enrolling in primary school. With the encouragement and support of her teachers, she overcame those challenges, and her classmates eventually accepted and supported her. She proved her academic ability by earning an A grade in her Primary School Certificate examination and later secured another A grade in the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination from Kaunia Girls' High School.

Poly said she dreams of becoming a government administrative officer and serving the people. She believes that strong determination can overcome any obstacle in achieving one's goals.

The principal of Kaunia College said Poly has never used her disability as an excuse. He described her as a disciplined, hardworking and attentive student who regularly attends classes and is well respected by teachers and classmates.

Examination centre secretary Rafiqul Islam said all necessary assistance is being provided to Poly in accordance with the education board's guidelines for candidates with special needs. She has also been granted an additional 30 minutes to complete each examination.

Kaunia Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Papia Sultana said Poly's examinations are being conducted in line with the education board's directives. Her answer scripts have been separately preserved and sent to the board following the prescribed procedures.

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