Ayesha Akhter: A life beyond her disability

Ayesha Akhter, 31, was born without hands in Kachua Bazar village of Gaibandha’s Saghata upazila. Many came from afar to see her, with some even suggesting she be given a mercy death.

At 11, after entering fifth grade, her father wanted to sell her to a circus troupe, but her mother, Shajeda Begum, stood up to him and supported her.

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With her mother’s support, Ayesha learned to write using her feet and earned GPA-5 in both SSC and HSC. She later completed a bachelor’s degree and a first-class master’s degree from Gaibandha Government College.

Despite her academic achievements, Ayesha long struggled to find a job. Her wait finally ended in July, when Prime Minister Tarique Rahman appointed her class supervisor at BIAM Laboratory School and College in Gaibandha.

The appointment fulfils Ayesha’s long-held dream of standing on her own feet and supporting her ageing mother.