Every day is a chance for new opportunities

In many ways, Syed Arij Kazim’s journey from childhood to adolescence has mirrored that of the school he has been enrolled in for the last 13 years. “Like me, Korangi Academy was newborn when I enrolled,” laughs the 16 year old student. “My parents were so intrigued by the campus when it was being built that they decided to send me here.” For Arij, every day at school is a chance for new opportunities. “Mathematics is my favourite subject,” he says. “My teachers are brilliant. Their instruction style makes me love the subject and they are willing to explain any concept to us, no matter how many times we ask.” However, Arij is also clear that the impact his studies have had on him extend beyond the classroom. “I now know how to answer questions more directly,” he says. “I can get straight to the point and engage with the person who is asking.”

Arij hopes to continue his education with a focus on pre-Engineering, as a means towards obtaining a scholarship for his higher education. “I have always wanted to become an Aeronautical Engineer,” he says. “I grew up observing planes due to the environment my father works in, and have held a lifelong fascination with aviation.” Even as he plans ahead, Arij displays an acute awareness of his environment and surroundings. He has strong opinions about some of the current crises faced by underprivileged communities in Pakistan. “In this culture, people’s thought process and vision are often discouraged from developing,” he says. “Girls are often discriminated against when they want to study, and there are very few institutions that serve the most needy segments of society.” He laments the loss of potential that he sees in many impoverished communities: “When I visit these areas, I see many gifted and intelligent individuals. Yet, there is nobody to take care of their education or help develop their skills.” Arij makes a resolute declaration: “There must be free education for everyone. I hope that one day I can help ensure children in this world never have to give up their dreams.”