Rajwinder Kaur, a 28-year-old educator, is on a mission to ensure no one in her community is left behind in the pursuit of education. As the leader of ‘Bebe Bapu School’, she is changing the lives of elderly villagers, with the gift of literacy.

“My lifelong goal is to ensure that nobody stays uneducated in our village,” she says. Her passion for education drives her daily efforts at Bebe Bapu School.

Founded by the Sardar Gurbachan Singh Sewa Samiti Society, the school serves as hope for senior citizens in Punjab’s Balloh. The school teaches elderly residents to read, write, and sign their names.

It has nearly 100 students, mostly aged 50 and above. They come to learn basic reading and writing skills that they missed out on during their youth. “Many of our parents would say that their own parents didn’t prioritise schooling, which contributed to this cycle.” shares Rajwinder.

“The primary reason many elders missed out on education in their early years is that educational opportunities were scarce,” she explains.

Rajwinder points out a common difficulty faced by her elderly students. “People often struggle with signing documents and use thumbprints. Our goal is to change that,” says the educator, who is determined to give them confidence through education.

One of Rajwinder's proudest moments was when an elderly woman, who had always relied on her thumbprint, signed her name with pride. “It’s a small victory, but it represents so much more,” she says.

Her classroom is a place of community and warmth. “We don’t just focus on studies. Sometimes, we tell them stories and chit-chat a little,” she shares.

To encourage learning, the school offers small incentives. “Any adult who learns to sign their name successfully, receives Rs 100,” says Rajwinder.

Managing a classroom full of elders wasn’t easy at first, but Rajwinder found that love and respect were key. “They have been incredibly cooperative, and their desire to learn has made my job so rewarding,” she shares.

Many of Rajwinder’s students have gone on to teach children at home. Her dedication ensures that the flame of knowledge will continue to burn brightly for generations to come.