Himmat Singh, Devkripa Vidya Mandir Higher Secondary School, Gangapur, MP
Himmat Singh was always influenced by his teachers and wanted to make a lasting impact on each student’s life through teaching. He started his career as a Government teacher and soon saw the gaps in the education system. These gaps included the lack of infrastructure, learning resources and the financial instability of students’ families, which led to high dropout rates.
“The conditions of the government schools really moved me,” Himmat says. “I felt I could perhaps contribute to them more than just as a teacher.”
Himmat recognized the struggles faced by his students and was determined to make a difference. “Seeing the potential in these students, despite their challenges, motivated me to work harder,” he shares. He believed he could offer more than just education, aiming to provide support and resources to help his students stay in school and succeed.
Bouncing from Dissatisfaction
Himmat set out on a journey driven by his desire to make a significant impact in education. Unhappy with the limitations of his government job, he decided to take a bold step and move into private education.
“The transition from a secure government job to establishing a school was undoubtedly the toughest part of my journey,” Himmat recalls. “It required professional dedication and personal sacrifices to fulfill my responsibilities.”
This brave decision led to the founding of Devkripa Vidya Mandir School. “Building this school was more than just a career change; it was a commitment to making a real impact,” he emphasized.
Navigating Challenges
Himmat’s determination led to the establishment of Devkripa Vidya Mandir in 2001, Ganganagar, MP. Despite financial constraints and limited facilities, he aimed to create a school focused on delivering quality education affordably.
“The idea to start a school arose from a genuine need for better education in our community,” Himmat explains. “I saw an opportunity to make a meaningful difference and decided to take action.”
In the late 1990s, Himmat Singh faced significant challenges: inadequate government teacher salaries and the complexities of launching a private school in a financially strapped rural area. His decision to leave his government job marked a tough transition, yet it laid the groundwork for a school poised to make a profound impact on the entire community.
“During my time as a government teacher, we grappled with numerous challenges, from financial constraints to restrictive policies,” Himmat reflects. “Starting our school was more than a career shift; it was a commitment to providing quality education to our community.”
Reflecting on the obstacles that preceded the founding of Devkripa Vidya Mandir, Himmat highlighted the determination to overcome challenges and create a positive impact through accessible education.
Utilizing Resources Wisely
Himmat describes, “Owning a small house and a piece of land was a fortunate advantage for us. We transformed the spare house into our school building, saving a substantial amount on renting a facility.” This step, he underscores, “demonstrated our dedication to making education accessible in rural areas,” showcasing the practical approach that characterized Devkripa Vidya Mandir.
Door-to-Door Marketing and Community Engagement
“In the early days, building trust within the community was essential,” shares Himmat. “Despite my background as a government school teacher, we engaged in door-to-door marketing to ensure parents understood the value we aimed to provide.” The school offered both Hindi and English medium education, affiliated with the Madhya Pradesh Board, to meet the diverse needs of local families.
“Raising awareness about the school posed challenges. We visited every household, emphasizing the quality of education we aimed to offer,” Himmat recalls. He reminisces, “The journey of Devkripa Vidya Mandir began as a community effort, with everyone contributing from the start.” This collaborative spirit was crucial in the school’s early years.
Varthana’s Partnership
“Since 2013, our journey has been closely connected with Varthana. Their support, especially in developing infrastructure, has been crucial for our success. I am thankful for their tremendous support,” Himmat acknowledges. The enduring partnership with Varthana has significantly improved the school’s infrastructure, creating a better learning environment for students.
“Varthana’s commitment to rural education aligns with our vision for Devkripa Vidya Mandir. Through this partnership, we’ve been able to introduce innovative solutions and enhance the educational experience for our students,” Himmat emphasizes, underscoring the importance of collaboration in the school’s growth.
Also Read: A Woman From A Low-Income Background Opens a School in Rural Maharashtra With No External Support
Education’s Role in Transforming Rural India
“Education forms the foundation of Indian society and the global community. India’s advancement directly correlates with higher levels of education,” emphasizes Himmat. “Education not only empowers individuals but also fosters societal progress and enlightenment,” he believes.
“As educators, we hold a vital role in shaping our nation’s future. Through quality education, we contribute to building a more informed and empowered society,” Himmat reflects. He underscores “the transformative impact of education in rural India,” highlighting its potential to bring positive change.
Private Schools’ Impact on Rural Education
“I am pleased to say that our school has made a significant impact on rural education. We’ve witnessed students becoming teachers, and our female students excelling in board exams, which has helped improve rural literacy,” beams Himmat. He emphasizes that Devkripa Vidya Mandir’s commitment to providing quality education at an affordable cost has positively influenced the local community, breaking barriers and inspiring academic excellence.
“Our success stories demonstrate the transformative power of education. We’ve seen students from modest backgrounds rise to prominent positions, pursue higher education, and make positive contributions to society,” Himmat explains, highlighting the tangible outcomes of the school’s dedication to education.
“Teaching is a noble profession. I remember two students from humble backgrounds who achieved significant societal positions—one pursuing a Ph.D. and the other becoming a teacher in a government school. Such examples inspire us,” Himmat reflects, recalling impactful moments that underscore the importance of the teaching profession.
Future Aspirations
Despite financial challenges, Himmat aims to introduce modern amenities such as smart classes and advanced lab equipment to enrich the learning experience. “Our objective is to offer a well-rounded education that prepares students for the complexities of the modern world. Though financial constraints present obstacles, we remain hopeful about the future,” he explains, outlining the school’s vision for ongoing improvement.
The journey of Devkripa Vidya Mandir Higher Secondary School, guided by Himmat’s dedication and punctuated by his reflections, represents a path of resilience, commitment, and transformation. It illustrates the profound impact of education in rural India, demonstrating that despite difficulties, the pursuit of knowledge can shape a brighter future for generations to come.
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