August 04, 2008	Monday	Sha'aban 1 429

GUJRANWALA, Aug 3: Distinction in education is not merely a rich man’s prerogative as a poor lad of Nokhar Mandi village has proved.Hafiz Amanullah, who has emerged as the top scorer in arts group by obtaining 765 marks in the Gujranwala Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, claims that his jubilation is short-lived as he doesn’t afford to continue higher studies.

Speaking to Dawn, he revealed that he would assist his father in welding after his school hours. “Now my family is worried that how will I continue my studies,” he said.

Nokhar Mandi locates in the suburbs of Gujranwala, having a population of 25,000 and five per cent literacy rate. There is only one government high school for boys and no college. Hafiz Amanullah said though he had obtained marks that could ensure him a seat in any premier institution, he was upset about the fact that he lacked financial means to continue his studies. He said he burnt midnight oil, but never cared about securing a position, knowing that “it won’t change my fate”.

Saeed Ahmed, brother of Hafiz Amanullah, told Dawn that they couldn’t let him continue studies due to scarce resources and a lack of proper institution in the vicinity of Nokhar Mandi.

Amanullah’s father Muhammad Husain looks towards the powers-that-be to help the boy continue his studies. —IMRAN SALEEM