Mauritian Prodigy’s Journey: SC at 14, HSC at 16, Degree at 18

Mauritian student Taran Boodhoo, at just 18 years old, has achieved an extraordinary academic milestone by earning a first-class degree in Computer Science (Systems Engineering) from Middlesex University Mauritius. His dedication and hard work have set a remarkable example for young students across the island.

Taran’s impressive journey began early, driven by a strong interest in technology, discipline, and family support. He excelled in school, passing the School Certificate (SC) exams at 14 and the Higher School Certificate (HSC) at 16.

His accelerated progress included skipping three grades: primary grade 5 and secondary grades 11 and 13.

This rapid advancement was made possible by both parents and teachers who encouraged his self-study and helped him take exams for grades 4 and 5 in the same year, allowing him to enter grade 6 early.

In 2021, he was promoted automatically, enabling him to sit for the SC exams, and two years later, the HSC. His education took place at Le Nid Pre-Primary and Primary School in Triolet and Rabindranath Tagore Secondary School.

Although he took some private courses, Taran mainly relied on self-learning. He describes himself as a curious and disciplined student, supported closely by his family.

While some teachers were surprised by his quick progress, no one discouraged him.

He is grateful to everyone who supported him along the way, including school staff outside the classroom. Their encouragement was crucial.

Choosing his university major came naturally. Passionate about autonomous systems and coding, he took intensive IT courses during school holidays.

Middlesex University Mauritius offered a program combining software, hardware, and robotics that matched his ambitions.

Balancing university studies and his personal life was challenging but manageable through strict time management, organization, and support from his family, grandparents, and friends. He also made sure to take breaks to stay focused.

Alongside his studies, Taran participated in several hackathons, winning a competition and reaching the finals of another.

Although some internship opportunities were denied due to his age, he remained persistent. At 15, he represented Mauritius at the SADC Youth Parliament—a role he continues to pursue.

Now a graduate, Taran is planning to continue his education toward a PhD, focusing on artificial intelligence and robotics—preferably in the UK.

He co-founded a startup called Nuvancia, a freelancing platform for university students, to help young people offer services, gain experience, and earn income. The platform is set to launch soon.

His future goals include research, teaching, entrepreneurship, and working in the private sector.

Mauritian education system

Although he is interested in gaining international experience, he is hoping to return to Mauritius and contribute to the country’s technological development.

What motivates him most in technology is its constant evolution. He believes every day offers a new learning opportunity.

However, he also criticized the Mauritian education system for lacking programs tailored for advanced students, such as enrichment or acceleration classes, and for insufficient technological infrastructure that hampers innovation.

If he could recommend reforms, he would emphasize developing practical and emotional skills.

He advocates for courses on mental health, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and responsible digital use to better prepare students for future challenges.

Outside of his studies, Taran enjoys going to the gym, playing football and badminton with his younger brother and friends, and watching movies or sports matches.

Despite being much younger than most university classmates, he said that he has integrated well and supported by his friends.

Source: l’Express