Home / Education / Teacher brings Onam spirit to remote Arunachal students
Teacher brings Onam spirit to remote Arunachal students
11 Nov
Summary
- Teacher Ali Ashqar traveled nearly 3,000 km to teach in Arunachal Pradesh.
- He teaches at a school near the India-China border with 102 students.
- The school's Onam celebration video gained widespread online attention.
A 28-year-old teacher named Ali Ashqar undertook a remarkable journey of nearly 3,000 kilometers from Areekode, Kerala, to Karo, a remote village in Arunachal Pradesh's Shi-Yomi district. He now teaches at the NSCBAV School, which serves 102 students and faces significant challenges due to poor roads, landslides, and limited electricity.
Ashqar's commitment extends beyond the classroom, involving teacher training, community engagement, and parent collaboration. His educational background spans Kerala, Punjab, and Puducherry, with previous work experience in Kashmir, before his dedication brought him to this remote school.
The school is situated in Shi-Yomi district, close to the India-China border, where daily life is impacted by difficult terrain and isolation. Ashqar has been instrumental in revitalizing the institution, which was previously at risk of closure due to declining enrollment.
Videos of the school's Onam celebration, organized by Ashqar and fellow teachers, captured national attention in 2026. The event introduced students to Malayalam traditions, including songs, dances, and a traditional feast, fostering a sense of togetherness.
Ashqar aims to improve the school's facilities by installing smartboards and developing a fully equipped smart classroom. He hopes to provide the students in this remote village with enhanced learning resources and opportunities.