A PARTIALLY sighted Halesowen College student has won a Dudley Youth Award for overcoming adversity.

Business studies student Shakil Akbar is on track to achieve the top BTEC grade at level three and is also a valued member of the Student Union and has volunteered at open days.

Described as “highly independent”, he also spends time helping other students and while getting support from college, has also found innovative ways to get the resources he needs.

His personal coach, Victoria Craske, said: “Shakil is a pleasure to teach and is an asset to the college. We are all delighted he has won this award.

“All his work has been submitted on time and his focus during the course is excellent.”

Shakil, from Cradley Heath, was described as an “exemplary student” by student experience director Alex Griffin.

He added: “We are very proud that Shakil’s commitment and determination has been recognised in these prestigious awards.”