Uttar Pradesh, India -Writing an inspiring tale of education, struggle, and achievements, Santosh Kumar Agrahari has proven that physical challenges cannot become obstacles on the path to success. Born in the village of Pokharbhitwa, Post Senua, Lotan, in the Siddharthnagar district of Uttar Pradesh, Mr. Santosh Kumar Agrahari turned his disability into strength and made remarkable contributions to the field of education.
Education and Struggles: A Story of Overcoming Barriers
Santosh Kumar Agrahari’s early life was full of struggles. Despite the lack of educational facilities in his village, he completed his primary education at Primary School Barwa and studied from Class 6 to 12 at Janata Inter College, Baniyadih, Lotan, Siddharthnagar. Despite his disability, he walked approximately 5 kilometers daily to attend school, reflecting his unwavering determination and passion for education.
For higher education, he obtained a bachelor’s degree from Ram Adhare Chaurasia Mahavidyalaya, Bakeniha Uska Bazar, Siddharthnagar. Further, he earned an M.A. in History (87%) from Uttar Pradesh Rajarshi Tandon Open University, Prayagraj, and also completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) from S.S. Institute of Management, Lucknow.
Mr. Agrahari pursued his B.Ed. and M.Ed. (Special Education – Intellectual Disability) from Dr. Shakuntala Mishra National Rehabilitation University, Lucknow, ensuring his significant contribution to the education of persons with disabilities.
Contributions to Special Education and Research
Not only excelling in academics, but Santosh Kumar Agrahari is also actively engaged in research and writing. He has published several research papers, articles, books, and patents. Currently, he is conducting research on inclusive education for children with disabilities and the challenges and barriers in their inclusion in different sectors.
Success in Competitive Examinations
His hard work and dedication have led him to success in various competitive exams, including:
-
Qualified as PGT (History) under the Army Welfare Education Society (AWES)
-
Cleared Gujarat State Eligibility Test (GSET) for Assistant Professor in ‘Education’
-
Passed UGC-NET in ‘Education’ and UGC-NET in ‘History’ for Ph.D. admission
Commitment to Inclusive Education
Santosh Kumar Agrahari is deeply dedicated to promoting education and inclusivity for persons with disabilities. He firmly believes that the purpose of education is not just the acquisition of knowledge but also empowering every student according to their abilities and potential.
An Inspiring Message
“Your limitations are only what you believe them to be. If you have faith in yourself, no obstacle in the world can stop you from moving forward.”
Santosh Kumar Agrahari’s inspiring journey, his achievements, and his social contributions serve as motivation for all persons with disabilities and struggling students. His story is a testament to the fact that with determination, self-reliance, and perseverance, any challenge can be overcome.