Archive · 7 Nov 2025
'Disability Is Not Inability': India's First Visually Impaired Rhodes Scholar
Rahul Bajaj made history by becoming India's first student with a visual impairment to receive the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University.
His journey from Nagpur to Oxford was filled with challenges, especially as he was the first person from his previous university to apply to Oxford.
He had to work hard to prove his academic capabilities and navigate a new environment.
At Oxford, Rahul didn't just focus on his studies; he also actively worked to improve inclusion for students with disabilities.
He helped start a group to talk about disability issues and represented students with disabilities in important university organizations.
Rahul believes that it's important for universities to support all students and that disabilities shouldn't stop anyone from achieving their goals.
He advises other students with disabilities to focus on their strengths and not be afraid to apply for big opportunities.
His story shows that with determination and preparation, barriers can be overcome.
Rahul Bajaj has become India's first visually impaired Rhodes Scholar, studying at Oxford University.
He faced challenges applying to Oxford due to his university's lack of prior representation there.
Bajaj founded the Rhodes Disability Project and was active in disability advocacy at Oxford.
He advocates for disability rights, social justice, and equal opportunity in academia.
Bajaj advises students with disabilities to build on their strengths and pursue ambitious academic goals.
- Who
- Rahul Bajaj, India's first visually impaired Rhodes Scholar
- What
- Became India's first visually impaired Rhodes Scholar, advocating for disability rights and inclusive education.
- When
- The article reflects on his journey and experiences at Oxford.
- Where
- Nagpur, India and Oxford, UK
- Why
- To pursue higher education at a top global university, gain a multicultural experience, and advocate for disability rights.
- Name
- Rahul Bajaj
- Achievement
- India's first visually impaired Rhodes Scholar
- Education
- Law degree from Nagpur University, pursued degrees at Oxford University
- Advocacy Areas
- Disability rights, social justice, equal opportunity in academia
- Activities at Oxford
- Founded Rhodes Disability Project, served as disability representative for Oxford Union, representative for a disability rights campaign within the Oxford Student Union