Bongaigaon Times: 06th September 2025: In a remarkable display of perseverance and passion, 34-year-old Debajit Ghosh, principal of Namsang Tea Garden Adarsha School in Assam’s Upper Assam region, has been selected for the National Teachers' Award 2025, presented at Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Droupadi Murmu.
A Grueling Journey with a Purpose
Every school day, Ghosh undertakes a formidable 150-kilometre commute across challenging terrain—cutting through mud-slicked paths and elephant-inhabited stretches of the Dehing (Dihing) Patkai National Park. Despite the physical toll and inherent dangers, he remains undeterred in his mission to uplift the tea garden community through education.
When asked what motivates him to endure such hardship, Ghosh explained: “If I do not stay here, it will not be possible to carry out the developmental work … my wife also works in Dibrugarh. I bring two other teachers in my car, while the rest travel by bike, as there's no direct public transport to the school.”
Reversing Disturbing Trends
Under Ghosh’s leadership, the school—established in 2022 to serve children in remote tea gardens—has made impressive strides. Within three years, more than 300 out-of-school children have returned to classrooms.
Initially, just 32 students sat for the high school leaving certificate (HSLC) exam, with only 14 succeeding. But the following year saw a dramatic turnaround: 18 out of 20 passed, pushing pass rates to around 90%.
Ghosh has also focused on students’ health, improving hemoglobin levels among the children and ensuring all Class 10 graduates continue their education. Over 267 former dropouts have been reintegrated into the school system—a testament to his unwavering commitment to combat anemia and school dropouts.
From Classroom Mentor to Principal with Purpose
Ghosh's teaching journey began in 2013 at Dibrugarh Bengali High School. A turning point came when he guided a reluctant Class 8 student, Abhishek, to overcome his aversion to writing and excel in his exams—scoring 100 in Science and 93% overall in Class 10. This experience deepened Ghosh's commitment to nurturing intellectual curiosity rather than chasing marks.
Recognition at the Highest Level
For his extraordinary efforts, Ghosh is among 45 educators nationwide being recognized with the National Teachers' Award this year. The accolade—conferred on Teacher’s Day—is a tribute to individuals whose work transcends conventional teaching and sparks positive community transformations.
Reflecting on the honor, Ghosh said it evoked a wave of gratitude and emotion, recalling the sacrifices of his parents and the support from his late uncle, Tarit Ghosh, who played a pivotal role in his education.
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