A remarkable story of perseverance and triumph has emerged from Rakiraki, where a student named Shoheel Gounder has successfully completed his Year 8 examination, achieving a score of 300 out of 500. Shoheel, who attends Rakiraki Methodist School, faces considerable challenges due to dysgraphia, a learning disability that affects his writing and speaking abilities.
To assist Shoheel in his examination, the Ministry of Education authorized the use of a special writer and granted him additional time. This arrangement was made following an appeal from Semi Goundar, the head of the school. The special writer was a younger student who transcribed Shoheel’s dictated answers during the exam, allowing him to focus solely on conveying his knowledge.
Mr. Gounder, Shoheel’s father, highlighted the importance of attentive listening when communicating with his son, saying, “He can speak. One has to listen very carefully to what he is saying.” In addition to this support, Shoheel’s class teacher, Praneel Dayal, played a vital role in his learning journey by providing photocopied notes to facilitate his understanding and memorization.
Mr. Dayal expressed the challenges Shoheel faced and his determination to participate in the Fiji Year 8 Exam despite his struggles with writing. He pursued reasonable accommodations with the ministry’s exam and assessment unit, which ultimately helped Shoheel achieve his academic goals.
Shoheel’s mother, Rosie Gounder, shared her pride in her son’s accomplishments. “He’s a boy who wants to learn and go to school, and we are going to support him,” she declared. “Education is important for Shoheel, and we will ensure he studies and excels.”
This inspiring story serves as a reminder of the power of determination and the vital role that support and understanding from educators and family play in helping students overcome obstacles. Shoheel’s achievement not only reflects his personal strength but also highlights the importance of inclusive education practices that cater to the needs of all learners.
With continued encouragement and resources, Shoheel’s future looks bright, and he serves as an inspiration to others navigating similar challenges.
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