Shree Kalika Secondary School, Tripurasundari Rural Municipality-06, Tekanpur

Susmita Thapa’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to education. Growing up in a small, close-knit society, her world was largely confined to her home and school. As the eldest daughter, she received plenty of affection but had limited educational support from her family. Her childhood was marked by the fear and uncertainty of the conflict period (2062-2063 BS), yet she persevered in her studies, completing up to grade 5 with the help of her uncle, who played a pivotal role in her education. His guidance in mathematics and boarding education not only helped her academically but also inspired her to dream bigger and aim higher.

Susmita’s educational journey was profoundly influenced by her teacher, Jagat Mani Soti, whose ability to simplify complex subjects and make learning enjoyable left a lasting impression on her. She attributes much of her academic success to his engaging and supportive teaching style, which has shaped her own philosophy as an educator. Susmita believes that good teachers should be confident, reliable, and approachable, treating students as friends while remaining committed to their work. She emphasizes the importance of understanding students’ perspectives, being punctual, and taking responsibility for their growth. These principles guide her vision of what it means to be an effective and inspiring teacher.

Susmita’s journey has been filled with challenges, the toughest being her fight against child marriage—a barrier she overcame through education and self-empowerment. With the support of her family, she took decisive steps to reclaim her future, demonstrating remarkable strength and resilience. This experience has fueled her determination to empower others through education and to create opportunities for students to thrive despite their circumstances.

Motivated by her own experiences studying in a rural setting, Susmita is deeply committed to improving the quality of education for students in similar circumstances. She understands the challenges they face and sees teaching in rural schools as an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. For her, it’s not just about imparting knowledge but also about understanding diverse cultures and community issues. She believes this experience will not only enrich her own learning but also open new career opportunities, allowing her to contribute more effectively to the field of education.