A teenage Glasgow asylum seeker has excelled in his exams - despite facing the threat of deportation.
Somer Umeed Bakhsh received four As and a B in his Higher exams, overcoming the stress and trauma of living with the uncertainty that he might be forced to return to Pakistan.
The 16-year-old, who aspires to be an astrophysicist, is a pupil at Springburn Academy in Glasgow.
Somer, who is now in his sixth year at school, received As in Maths, Chemistry, Physics and English and a B in Design and Manufacture.
He said: "I'm extremely pleased with my exam results.
"I want to thank my primary school teachers who provided me with a strong foundation and my secondary school teachers who put in the hard work and taught me.
"I am also very thankful for my parents who, despite the stressful situation, always encouraged and supported me.
"Above all, I want to thank God who helped me to stay focused on my studies in the midst of these tough times."
Somer and Areeb have lived in Glasgow with their parents, Maqsood and Parveen since their family fled the Muslim country in 2012 after their father was subjected to death threats due to his Christian faith.
The family, who have been living in limbo for more than seven years, attend Possilpark Parish Church where they are described as “leading lights” of the congregation.
Minister, Rev Linda Pollock, said: "Somer is living under considerable strain and he is an example to us all.
"How many adults would be able to achieve 4 As and 1 B at Higher level whilst coping with the threat of imminent departure to a place where they are a target for extremist Islamists?
"His hard work and focus is commendable and you must also know that he has not been a recluse.
"He has a very active social life and he works with kids living with difficult circumstances."
Tracy Kirk, a children’s rights expert who is also a supporter of the family, said: “Somer’s results are a testament to how hard he worked.
"The fact he achieved these results amidst the uncertainty imposed upon him and his family by the Home Office is nothing short of extraordinary."
From all of us at Glasgow Live , huge congrats to you, Somer. You're a total inspiration!
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