Moments of joy, memories for life
Excitement lit up her face as Nazifa Anjum Hoque Apshora of Methodist English Medium School posed for a photo with friends, holding a placard that read, “I don’t chase grades, grades chase me.”
Nazifa, who secured A grades in all eight subjects in her O-level exams, arrived with her mother to receive the award and could hardly contain her joy.
Speaking to The Daily Star, she shared her future plans of pursuing higher studies in biochemistry in Germany.
“Behind this achievement is nothing but hard work,” she said
Nazifa added that she hopes to return home after completing her studies abroad and contribute to the country’s advancement.
The Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center was filled with similar stories of ambition, excitement, and perseverance as The Daily Star and Prime Bank yesterday honoured a total of 2,545 -- 1,928 O-level and 617 A-level -- students from 121 English-medium schools across the country for their outstanding performances in their board exams.
Students’ faces lit up when their names were called from the stage to receive the honours and awards. They ran to get in line in front of the stage.
Parents and the teachers, also in attendance, were also brimming with pride.
Sahil Sadman, an O‑level graduate from Don Bosco School and College, achieved the country’s highest result this year with 15 A* and 1 A grades in a single sitting.
“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. It feels unexpected, but this is a result of determination, courage and consistent hard work,” he said.
Sadman added that his success was not his alone. “I’m grateful to my parents, teachers and friends who supported me every step of the way. Without them, I could not have come this far.”
Md Mushfiquzzaman, an O-level graduate from SFX Greenherald International School, said he wants to pursue aviation and space engineering for higher studies. “I want to go abroad for my studies and return home afterwards for my family.”
Eshal Diqrah, a student of South Breeze School, said she was elated after getting her O-level results. “I got five A*s, two As and one B.”
Surrounded by classmates, Eshal shared her future aspirations.
“I want to study in the medical field, most likely biology. I haven’t decided on a country yet, but I’m considering Malaysia or Australia,” she shared.
She also expressed her desire to return home after her studies. “Of course, I want to come back and do something for my country.”
Parents, families, teachers, friends, and special guests also joined the event.
Rupesh Kumar Barua, father of Ritika Barua, an A-level graduate from Singapore International School, said, “As a father, it’s hard to put into words how I feel today. I once told my daughter that I wanted to attend The Daily Star award ceremony one day, and she worked hard to make that happen. When I arrived at the venue, I couldn’t hold back my tears because she had fulfilled my dream… This programme is inspiring and will encourage many more students to strive for excellence.”
He mentioned that Ritika wants to study aeronautical engineering and become a pilot. “I will do everything I can to help her achieve that dream.”
Nusrat Jahan, mother of Ahmed Jahi Abdullah, an O-level graduate from Scholastica, said, “Seeing my son receive this award is a dream come true. I used to watch colleagues attend this programme with their children and wondered if I would ever be here. Today, that dream has come true.”
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. She added that Ahmed loves football, yet he is serious about studies and makes sure he understands whatever he learns. “That’s what makes me proud.”
Ashish Charles Rozario, principal of Methodist English Medium School, expressed pride as seven of his students received the awards this year.
“This achievement reflects the combined efforts of students, parents and teachers. Our teachers provided constant guidance, while parents were highly supportive.”
Receiving recognition alongside his students, Rozario added, “As a principal, I feel honoured and deeply proud of our children.”
Mahmud Islam, vice principal of Hardco International School, said he was delighted to see his students honoured on stage before the nation.
“From our school, 16 A-level students were awarded this year, though some could not attend as they have gone abroad for higher studies. However, all our O‑level awardees were here.”
He added that while teachers provide guidance, the credit belongs to the students. “Their effort, spirit and determination are the driving force. Our role is simply to remind them of their responsibilities.”
Expressing his hopes for the future, Mahmud said, “I wish these children could one day take up the country’s leadership. With their international exposure, they can represent Bangladesh globally. If we instil that responsibility in them, they will carry the nation forward.”
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