STAFF REPORT IBD: Shahzaib Ali Abbasi, 18, has been declared top in the world for mathematics in the Cambridge O-level examinations held by the University of Cambridge, UK. He has also achieved regional distinction in O-Level in computer studies.
His latest achievement is getting the coveted mention in the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) 2013 held in Colombia, South America, and a mention in the Asia Pacific Mathematics Olympiad, among other accolades.
Shahzaib is studying for his A-levels final from FFC Grammar School, Mirpur Mathelo, and his achievements have made his parents and teachers to walk with their heads held high.
“Shahzaib is not a bookworm. In addition to his studies, he makes time for sports. But when it comes to mathematics, he is crazy about it, so much so that while travelling he keeps a diary and pen ready and keeps solving mathematical problems,” said Zulfiqar, the father of Ali.
Ali said that he has received scholarship offers from Kings College, London; Bath University, UK, and the University of Hong Kong but he dreams of a bachelors degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in USA.
“It was a moment of pride for us when he was honoured in the mathematics Olympiad in Colombo and was handed the Pakistani flag,” said Mohammad Usman who teaches mathematics at Shahzaibs school.