Ahmed Ali, an uneducated rickshaw puller from Assam, became a special guest at the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi. The Indian Government invited him to attend their celebration due to his unprecedented success in school construction in his hometown. His incredible life story guides many other individuals.
Building Schools for Children
Ahmed Ali used his earnings from pulling rickshaws to create a chain of nine schools in southern Assam. He wanted to avoid educational forsakenness for his community despite poverty preventing him from attending school. Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned Ahmed Ali in his radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ which motivated him to continue his work, especially in improving women’s education.
A Lifelong Mission
At 88 years old, Ahmed Ali still works hard to establish a junior college for the children in his village. With money from his inheritance and savings he founded his first school when he was 70 years old during 1978. Small donations from the villagers enabled him to construct schools. Through his schools he has educated more than 500 girls and about 100 boys. Five schools became government-supported institutions although additional staff work voluntarily in the remaining schools.
Ahmed Ali is married to two women and has 11 children. He never wanted to name the schools after himself, but the villagers insisted on naming the high school Ahmed Ali Higher Secondary School. He has received many awards for his work but prefers to be called a ‘rickshaw driver,’ believing that all jobs have dignity.
Ahmed Ali’s story was highlighted by former Patharkandi MLA Krishendu Pal, and he continues to inspire others with his selfless mission to educate the next generation.
For detailed story, please visit: Awaz the voice
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