I believe education has the power to not only change the future but the perception, idea, and an entire generation,” says Priyanka, a determined community educator whose life story is a testament to the transformative power of education. Priyanka comes from a modest household, where she resides with her family. As the eldest child, she shoulders the responsibility of contributing to her family’s income. Her father, a daily laborer, toils relentlessly to provide a quality education for his two daughters, a vision that resonated deeply with Priyanka.
However, the financial constraints of her family seemed to be an insurmountable obstacle as she aimed for higher education. The dream of pursuing a college degree seemed out of reach. Despite this, Priyanka was committed to her family’s well-being and set out on a journey to become an educator, teaching children within her community. Her decision, though born out of necessity, soon evolved into a passionate calling. One fine day, she approached a fifth-grade student for tuition fees. The young boy confessed his inability to pay and abruptly stopped attending her classes from the next day. Concerned about his absence, Priyanka decided to investigate. What she discovered would forever change the trajectory of her life. The boy, Alok, unable to afford the tuition fee, had resorted to working with his father.
Financial constraints had compelled him to abandon his pursuit of education. Heartbroken but resolute, he revealed, “My father cannot afford to send me to tuition, and in school, I sometimes struggle with concepts, leading to teasing from my peers. So, I thought of dropping out.”
This revelation touched Priyanka’s heart, and she realized that the lack of access to quality education due to economic hardships was a broader issue affecting countless children. From that transformative day, Priyanka made a solemn vow: she would never ask for any fee from any of her students, whatever parents gave she took. She also took up a position in a private school to sustain her family.
The chance I received from ThinkZone feels like pure magic to me—my dream of doing something on my own. It’s a reminder that magic happens in life; you just have to seize the opportunities and work diligently to make your dreams a reality.
– Said Priyanka
Priyanka stands as a shining example of community educators who, in their silent dedication, work tirelessly to provide every child with the opportunity for a brighter future. Through her unwavering commitment and selfless actions, Priyanka not only changed her own life but also illuminated the path toward a more equitable and accessible education system for all. Her story is a testament to the incredible impact that one person can have when they are driven by a sense of purpose and a desire to make a positive difference in the world.
