"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
30 Aug 2023
In an extraordinary achievement, a 10-year-old schoolboy from Mumbai has made history by becoming the world's youngest certified Junior Open Water Scuba Diver. Dwit A. Nandu, a fourth-grade student at St. Francis D'Assisi High School, accomplished this remarkable feat by diving into the sea off the Puducherry coast.
Certified by the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI), based in Australia, Dwit's achievement is recognized globally. PADI issues certifications to divers, qualifying them to explore underwater depths around the world. According to PADI rules, the minimum age for certification is 10 years, and Dwit completed the course shortly after celebrating his 10th birthday on August 24.
Diving runs in the family, as Dwit's father, Dr. Amit Nandu, is a Certified Deep Diver, and his elder brother, Jinay, is an Advanced Open Water Diver studying at IIT Bombay.
The rigorous course involved advanced swimming skills, confined water training in a swimming pool, and four open water dives. Dwit also had to pass a written exam covering five modules to obtain his certification.
This exceptional accomplishment by Dwit Nandu serves as an inspiration to young aspiring divers and highlights the immense potential and talent of children at a young age. His determination, dedication, and passion for diving have set a new benchmark in the world of scuba diving, showcasing the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for young adventurers.
As Mumbai celebrates the success of its prodigious young diver, Dwit's achievement will undoubtedly encourage and motivate young enthusiasts to pursue their dreams fearlessly.