Educational breakthrough is the only way to describe what 15-year-old Ramkeval has achieved in the small village of Nizampur, Uttar Pradesh. For the first time since India’s independence, someone from this remote, Dalit-majority village in Barabanki district has passed the Class 10 board exams—a feat that has ignited hope and pride across the entire community.
With a population of just around 300, Nizampur had never seen a student complete their board exams successfully. But Ramkeval’s story is not just about passing an exam—it’s about resilience, grit, and defying the odds.
Balancing Work and Education
As the eldest of four siblings, Ramkeval took on responsibilities early. He supported his family by doing odd jobs during the day, including working at wedding processions, where he earned between Rs 250 to 300. His days ended late, but his nights were devoted to studies under a solar lamp.
“Poverty forces one to do everything,” Ramkeval shared. “But I never stopped believing in my dream to study, no matter what.” Despite taunts from villagers who doubted his ability to even clear the exams, his self-belief kept him going.
He attended Government Inter College in Ahmedpur, travelling daily from his village and often working in between to help his family.
Official Recognition and Encouragement
Ramkeval’s achievement has not gone unnoticed. District Magistrate Shashank Tripathi honoured him and his parents, promising full support for his education. “This is not just a personal win—it’s a community breakthrough,” the DM said.
District Inspector of Schools (DIOS) O.P. Tripathi echoed this sentiment, calling Ramkeval a symbol of what dedication and belief can accomplish. “He is a role model for students everywhere. I commit to supporting him through the rest of his education so he can achieve his dream of becoming an engineer.”
Proud Parents and Community Hope
His mother Pushpa, a cook at the village primary school, was overwhelmed with joy. “I only studied till class 5, but I want all my children to go much further,” she said. His father Jagdish, a daily wage labourer, said, “Even when he came home after work, he would sit and study. I couldn’t study myself, but I always encouraged him.”
His siblings, currently in classes nine, five, and one, are also now more motivated, inspired by their brother’s incredible journey.
Lighting a Fire in Others
Ramkeval’s determination has already started to influence his peers. Students like Lovelesh and Mukesh, who couldn’t pass the exams this year, are now more determined to study. “I work in the fields, but I don’t want my son to remain a labourer,” said Lovelesh’s father, Nanku. “Education is our only escape.”
Even the women in the village are now expressing a renewed commitment to send their children to school. The ripple effect of this one boy’s achievement is shifting the mindset of an entire village.
Dreams of an Engineer
Though still in disbelief about his result, Ramkeval already has a vision for his future. “It still feels unreal,” he said. “But I want to become an engineer. That’s my dream.” With local authorities stepping in to help and a newfound community spirit rising around him, that dream no longer feels out of reach.
From carrying lights at weddings to lighting the path for others, Ramkeval’s educational breakthrough is more than a personal triumph—it’s a turning point for Nizampur.
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