Some time ago, on a weekend, two young women—now employed at a well-known entertainment company—came to visit my spouse, who had once taught them in their primary school years. These girls came from a backward-class background and had started their education in a non-English-medium school. However, thanks to sheer perseverance and timely support, they eventually gained admission into a reputed Central Government school.
Recognizing their language barrier, the principal thoughtfully admitted them into a lower class to help them adjust to English-medium instruction. Their family situation was dire—their father, an alcoholic, spent all his earnings on liquor and eventually passed away, leaving behind a struggling mother and four children, including these two girls.
Thanks to the kindness of the school principal and the dedication of several teachers, the girls excelled in their studies. Some teachers even provided financial assistance when they sought college admission. To supplement their income, the girls also gave private tuition classes. Their recent visit was a touching gesture of gratitude for all those who helped shape their journey.
Stories like theirs are not rare. Across India, millions of boys and girls rise above adversity with determination and hard work. But sadly, today, we are witnessing a disheartening trend—youngsters giving up on life over minor setbacks in academics, jobs, or relationships.
I recall another story, this time of a girl from the south who battled tremendous odds. The youngest of five siblings, she transitioned from a Tamil-medium school to an English-medium CBSE institution during her secondary education. Her father, a retired government school teacher, had only a small pension and no savings to support her. Despite the odds, she worked relentlessly to complete her higher secondary education and then pursued a degree in English Literature.
Even admission fees were a challenge. Her elder sibling supported her with a powerful piece of advice: “Only education will shape your future.” She couldn’t even afford textbooks and had to borrow them from friends and the college library. Her hard work paid off when she secured a scholarship for both her graduation and post-graduation.
To manage day-to-day expenses, she gave tuitions throughout her academic journey. Eventually, she landed a temporary teaching job at a public sector-sponsored school. Although the salary was modest, she persisted. The school encouraged her to complete a B.Ed degree through distance education, promising her a regular teaching position upon qualification. True to their word, she was later recruited as a teacher at a Central Government school.
Today, we see many youngsters blessed with far more support—financial stability, encouraging parents, digital tools, and access to resources. Yet, they often lack the drive to persevere. Many blame circumstances, lose focus, and drift aimlessly. Among the well-off, overindulgence by parents can lead to a lack of discipline, and in some tragic cases, substance abuse or delinquency.
The stories above are not just inspiring—they are reminders. If students truly wish to succeed in the real world, there is no substitute for hard work, determination, and discipline.
Unlike in the past, today’s youth have greater access to learning and earning opportunities. With digital platforms, internships, apprenticeships, and skill-based programs, one can learn, earn, and grow simultaneously. The modern world offers countless paths. It is up to the youth to make the best of them—to not only uplift their own lives but also become responsible citizens and pillars of strength for their families and the nation.
