Jalandhar: He understands them more than anyone else. He is an inclusive teacher aide teacher who teaches children with special needs. Rakesh Kumar (36) of Government Primary School, Bhaangala, has been teaching students with special needs since 2009. “I must say these children have become an integral part of my life. I have learnt a lot from them. Despite many problems, they smile, work hard, laugh and what not,” he said. Kumar becomes permanent in the education department in 2023. His class has students suffering from intellectual disability and some with hearing, speech and visual impairment.
“They just need love. There is also conflict. Some children are very active. But, then with experience everything comes under control,” he said. Last year, Kumar also won the state award on Teachers’ Day for his services in the field. Many times, Kumar also took the students to various sports competitions and won medals. “They just want to learn. I have seen many qualities in them and they have the potential to shine in their lives and that is the purpose of my life, to instill a ray of hope in them,” he said. Kumar also organises camps for students suffering from cerebral palsy. He visits their homes and interacts with them.
