Chennai, September 3, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Seventeen-year-old J. Santhosh has secured admission to the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) four-year Bachelor of Science (BS) programme in Data Science and Applications, overcoming 90 per cent spinal muscular disability and cerebral palsy that he has lived with since birth.
Santhosh, who studied at a government-aided school in Tamil Nadu, had long dreamt of studying at IIT Madras. His determination grew stronger in 2025 when his physical condition prevented him from joining his classmates on a school trip to the institute’s campus. He was the only student from his class unable to make the trip.
Rather than allowing the setback to discourage him, Santhosh resolved to one day enter the institute as a student.
His journey has been supported by his mother, teachers and family, who helped him continue his education despite persistent health challenges. His father, an auto-rickshaw driver, faced financial difficulties but remained committed to ensuring that his son could pursue his studies.
Santhosh eventually emerged as the topper of his school in Class 12, setting the stage for his entry into IIT Madras.
The institute’s BS programme in Data Science and Applications, launched under its “IIT-M for All” initiative, proved particularly suited to his circumstances. The flexible programme allows students to study online and visit the campus mainly for examinations and practical sessions.
With support from an NGO, TN Volunteers, which had visited his school the previous year, Santhosh was introduced to the programme and received assistance with his preparation. He cleared the qualifier examination on his second attempt, becoming the only student from his class to secure admission to the IIT Madras BS programme.
TN Volunteers has also pledged to cover his first-year tuition fees and provide additional training in artificial intelligence to strengthen his technical skills.
IIT Madras hailed Santhosh’s achievement as an example of the spirit behind its “IIT-M for All” initiative, which seeks to widen access to quality education.
“Dreams don’t always follow an easy path – but determination can take you where you aspire to be,” the institute said in a social media post.
Santhosh now aims to complete the programme and contribute to India’s growing digital economy. His achievement highlights how accessible educational programmes, family support and individual determination can help students overcome significant physical and financial challenges.
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