The Inspiring Story of How a Gardener & Watchman Went on to Become a College Principal

Ishwar Singh Bargah is a living example of the fact that hard work and determination always pay off in the end. Meet this principal of a college in Bhilai who was once working as a gardener, a salesman, and a night watchman.

By TBI Team

August 30, 2015

48-year-old Ishwar Singh Bargah was once employed as a gardener by an organization that runs educational institutions in Bhilai.

Today, he has succeeded to become the principal of one of the colleges being run by the same organization.

Source: www.cgksmaheri.org

His journey began in 1985. At the age of 19, he went to Bhilai seeking a job after finishing his school education in Ghutiya village and Baitalpur. There, he began working as a salesman at a cloth store, earning Rs. 150 per month. With his earnings, he applied for a BA course. Along with his studies, he also got a job as a gardener in Kalyan College, Bhilai, with the help of his uncle’s connection. Until the time when he graduated in 1989, Ishwar took up several jobs and worked as a gardener, a parking stand keeper, and then as the supervisor of a construction work.

After graduation, he got himself enrolled as a craft teacher in the college, and during the night he used to work as the watchman, there itself. Recognizing his skills and capabilities as a teacher, college authorities appointed Ishwar as an assistant professor.

After this there was no stopping the man and his immense interest in education. While continuing his job, he also completed his MEd, BPEd and MPhil from the same college which is run by the Chhattisgarh Kalyan Shiksha Samiti.

Later, acknowledging his hard work and determination, the samiti members recommended his name for their newly set up college Chhattisgarh Kalyan Shiksha Mahavidyalaya in Aheri. In 2005, he joined there as principal on deputation.

“I was provided enough support and guidance by Professor TS Thakur, the then principal of the college, PK Shrivastav (HoD, Education), Dr HN Dubey (HoD Chemistry) and JP Mishra, who always stood by me to support me,” he told The Times of India.

Three cheers to the man and his inspiring dedication.

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