It was indeed heartening to learn of Naqi Haider Rizvi graduating as an engineer with the highest GPA from Al Faisal University. It is no mean achievement and it dispels all doubts that it is impossible for a person with totally impaired vision to pursue studies in the field of engineering.
He deserves all our applause and accolades for achieving such a remarkable distinction. The patience and efforts of his family in constantly providing him physical and moral support are commendable. Their confidence in him must have been instrumental in Naqi pursuing and achieving such a high goal. He is a role model and inspiration not only for those who have one or other form of minor or major disability, but also for all normal people.
He has demonstrated that no disability or limitation is a hindrance in achieving higher goals and objectives. He has proved that if one has sheer grit and determination, nothing is impossible.
I had the privilege of meeting and listening to Naqi recently at the Annual Toastmasters Conference.
He touched the hearts and minds of all there with his words and thoughts. I am sure Naqi must have moved the audience by his graduation commencement speech at the university. Naqi could be invited to different corporate and community forums to instill inspiration. All I can say is that we are privileged to have a Helen Keller of our time among us.
I hope that the Saudi universities and research centers will encourage physically challenged expatriate students to pursue higher studies in the subjects of their interest.
I am thankful to Arab News for carrying such features and highlighting the achievements of the expatriate community. — Safi H. Jannaty, Dammam
Remarkable achievement
