Mumbai’s 16-year-old prodigy fights all odds to study in Singapore
Team Clarion
MUMBAI — Sheikh Tayyaba Kausar Muhammad Arif, a 16-year-old student from Holy Mother English High School in Malvani in the northern area of Malad in the country’s financial capital, has secured a ₹2 crore scholarship to study at the United World College (UWC) in Singapore, starting August 10. Her achievement has brought immense pride to her family and community.
Tayyaba scored 93% in her SSC exams despite her modest background. Her father is a tailor, her mother a homemaker, and she has two younger sisters. Her disciplined study routine included early mornings and late nights, demonstrating her dedication.
Her journey began in October 2023 with an essay competition, followed by a rigorous selection process and a challenging interview in Pune on January 20. “Without the support from my school and NGOs, the documentation process would have been daunting,” she said.
Principal Rafiq Siddiqui of the Holy Mother School played a crucial role. He recalled how Tayyaba, who had to leave her previous school due to unpaid fees, joined Holy Mother in the sixth grade. “Moved by her determination, we assured her she’d never have to worry about fees again,” he said. NGOs like Smile Foundation and Teach for India also provided vital support.
In an interview, Tayyaba expressed her gratitude: “I thank Allah, my parents, my sisters, my principal, and the NGOs. I am excited to study in Singapore but aim to return and serve my country.”
Tayyaba’s journey from Mumbai’s Malvani to securing a ₹2 crore UWC scholarship is a testament to perseverance, hard work, and community support. Her success is an inspiration, showing that with determination and the right support, anything can be made possible.
