Pabna, July 2 (V7N) – Ashiqur Rahman, a native of Pabna, has been recommended for the Education Cadre in the 44th Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) examination, earning praise for his perseverance and dedication. Despite growing up in a financially struggling household, Ashiq credits his success to the relentless sacrifices of his father and elder brother.

Ashiq, 28, hails from the village of Gokulnagar under Majpara Union in Atghoria Upazila, Pabna. He is the third of five siblings—four brothers and one sister—born to Shafiqul Islam and the late Aleya Khatun.

In a brief interview, Ashiq shared that he comes from a poor family. His father worked as a bicycle mechanic, traveling daily to the distant Khidirpur Bazaar to repair bicycles and barely earn enough to sustain the family. Despite the hardship, his father ensured that all his children received an education.

“I lost my mother in 2002 when I was just six years old,” Ashiq recalled. “After that, my father remarried, but he never let me feel the absence of a mother. He protected me like a shield, always ensuring I was cared for.”

Academic Journey

Ashiq’s academic journey began at Khidirpur Shaheed Abdul Khaleq High School, from where he passed his SSC in 2012. He then completed his HSC from Notre Dame College, Dhaka in 2014, securing a GPA of 5.0. Later, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Economics at Jahangirnagar University, graduating in 2019, followed by a Master’s in the same subject in 2020.

While preparing for the BCS, Ashiq simultaneously sought employment and joined the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK) as an Assistant Director on June 20, 2024. His dedication bore fruit when he was selected for the Education Cadre in the prestigious 44th BCS.

Acknowledging the Pillars Behind the Success

When asked about the key contributors to his achievement, Ashiq didn’t hesitate. “My father is the cornerstone of my success. He spent his life repairing bicycles, yet never let me feel any financial burden. He always fulfilled my academic needs, even if it meant sacrificing his own.”

Ashiq also highlighted the crucial role of his elder brother, Amirul Islam Shobuj. “After completing his diploma, my brother moved to Dhaka to support the family. He abandoned his own dreams so I could chase mine. These two men—my father and brother—are the true architects of my success.”

Memories of a Father's Love

Ashiq fondly recalled emotional moments from his childhood. “I had respiratory issues since childhood and was very restless. My father, after a long day of work, would somehow sense when I was unwell. He would warm mustard oil with garlic and gently massage my chest. Miraculously, I’d feel better afterward.”

He continued, “What surprises me to this day is how my father never forgot to bring my school supplies. Even if he forgot other household items, he never forgot a pen or a notebook I had asked for.”

Message to BCS Aspirants

Ashiq believes that success in BCS requires more than just academic preparation. “Stay honest and think positively at all times,” he advises. “Believe in yourself—tell yourself that you can and will do it. Never let negative thoughts take root in your mind.”

Ashiq is proud of his father’s profession and feels no hesitation in sharing it. “My father was a bicycle mechanic, and I’m proud of it. His dignity, sacrifice, and love have shaped who I am today.”

Looking forward, Ashiq wants to serve the nation and work for the welfare of underprivileged communities. He humbly asks for everyone’s prayers as he embarks on this new journey of service.

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