IN his red jumper and black trousers, little Sudais is like any other youngster starting his first day at school in Glasgow.
But the milestone is all the greater for the youngster, who has fought back from life threatening injuries suffered when he was just two months old thanks to expert treatment in Scotland.
Yesterday the primary one pupil, whose parents and brother died in the gas explosion at their Pakistan home, waved happily as he joined new classmates.
Thanking medics, campaigners and the Scottish Government, his uncle Mohammad Asif said: "Miracles do happen in Scotland."
Sudais was joined by a crew from STV news for his big day, telling them he was excited and saying: "I'm going to make lots of new friends."
Scots raised more than £17,000 to bring the Afghan infant here for expert care after charity Positive Action in Housing launched a nationwide appeal.
He suffered severe burns to his face and other areas and it was feared that he would die if he remained in hospital in Pakistan.
In the years since he has undergone numerous procedures, with more still planned.
But yesterday hospital appointments were far from his mind as he entered the playground and classroom where he will spend the next year.
In a message to all those who have supported the family, Asif, a community activist and translator, said Sudais had gone from "the jaws of death in Peshawar" and stepped "into the next chapter of a brighter future".
He stated: "Today was a very happy and emotional day for us.
"Sudais Ameen Asif starts school which we have never expected and imagined to happen.
"Miracles do happen in Scotland and the reason for this one is the Scottish people who were there to help him.
"We are so delighted and thankful to everyone who have helped us."
The father-of-four went on: "We would like to thank the wonderful doctors, the dedicated & kind nurses, the exceptional staff at Yorkhill, the Scottish Government, Positive Action in Housing, the humble Scots & the Media for being there for us in the darkest days of our life."
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