Shankar Lal Jat, Amagarh Sharda Shiksha Mandir, Jaipur
Farming the Hopes of Education
Shankar Lal Jat’s journey is a powerful example of perseverance and determination. As the son of a humble farmer, he had a deep passion for education despite his challenges. “I left behind the quiet fields of my village, carrying with me nothing but a strong desire to learn and grow,” he recalls. With the unwavering support of his family, Shankar moved to Jaipur, where he lived with his uncle and continued his studies. His hard work eventually led him to earn a Master’s degree, a testament to his dedication and resolve.
However, after completing his B.Ed. in 1991, Shankar was disheartened by the reality of private schools—teachers were often overworked and underappreciated. “Seeing how little recognition teachers received for their hard work truly opened my eyes. I knew I had to do something,” he shares. Fueled by the need for change, in January 1996, he took a courageous step. He founded Amagarh Sharda Shiksha Mandir in a small rented space near his home, determined to create an educational environment that valued both teachers and students.
Gaining Parent’s Trust
Shankar highlights the vital role of building relationships, saying, “I have put in a lot of effort to convince parents and earn their trust.” His journey began with challenges, but his determination and perseverance shone brightly as he focused on gaining parent’s confidence while working to realize his vision for quality education.
He shares, “In our first year, we enrolled 88 students, and now, our school has flourished, boasting 800 students and a dedicated team of 35 staff members.” Shankar’s resilience and steadfast commitment have been essential to the incredible growth of the institution, inspiring everyone around him.
Student’s Growth & Teacher’s Trust
Around 144 students from the school have secured jobs in the government sector. Shankar notes, “One of them has become an RAS (Rajasthan Administrative Service) officer, and a couple are now doctors.” He feels joy seeing his students succeed, as their achievements reflect the disciplined environment he has created. Under his guidance, students have become well-mannered and cultured individuals. Shankar’s son, a national-level athlete, oversees the school’s sports program, enhancing the students’ experience.
As the director, Shankar encourages innovation among his teachers, allowing creativity to thrive without fear of punishment. He focuses on creating a learning atmosphere that values genuine education over blind obedience.
At Amagarh Sharda Shiksha Mandir, a strong bond has developed between Shankar and the teachers. “Some faculty members have been with us for over 20 years, which shows the family-like environment we have built,” he explains.
Nurturing Discipline and Respect
Shankar highlights the challenges faced by today’s generation, saying, “Discipline and respect for elders are declining, largely due to a lack of parental involvement.” He expresses concern about children being exposed to technology and adult behaviors too early.
He stresses, “Parents must play a more active role in their children’s education.” Shankar believes this will help address many of these issues. He adds, “Teachers deserve respect, as they play a key role in building a positive learning environment.” For him, collaboration between parents and teachers is crucial for shaping a better future for students.
Varthana: A Strong Support in Times of Need
During difficult times, Varthana became a crucial support for Shankar’s school. Shankar recalls, “When we struggled to upgrade the school, Varthana’s loan arrived just in time, allowing us to expand in ways we couldn’t on our own.”
As the new buildings were completed, the impact was clear. “With better classrooms, parents trusted us more, and enrollment grew,” Shankar explains.
Embracing Technology to Expand Horizons
Shankar’s vision extends beyond immediate challenges. He is committed to enhancing education through technology, having embraced the Lead School program to enable online classes. He believes, “Integrating technology into our curriculum is essential for preparing students for the future.” Additionally, he dreams of starting a college to provide better educational opportunities for his students.
Shankar’s journey—from a modest rented space to a successful educational institution—shows how dedication and resilience can bring change. He states, “Every step we take towards quality education opens new doors for our students.” As he looks ahead, he inspires both students and teachers. He emphasizes, “Education is not just about learning; it’s about creating a better future for everyone.” His efforts are making a lasting impact on the educational landscape in Jaipur.
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