Nalanda: Utkramit Madhya Vidyalaya Bahadurpur, located in Asthawan block of Nalanda district, Bihar, has completely transformed the negative perception surrounding government schools. Dr. Saurabh Kumar, a distinguished teacher and former in-charge headmaster here, rejected a lucrative offer to become a professor, choosing instead to dedicate himself to this school. He has poured his entire earnings and efforts into shaping the future of its students.

On September 5th, Teachers' Day, Bihar's Education Minister honored Dr. Saurabh with the State Teacher Award for his outstanding contributions. As the in-charge headmaster from 2018 to 2024, Dr. Saurabh completely revamped the school. A notable feature of this institution is that many children who previously attended private schools are now enrolling here. Priya Kumari, a seventh-grade student, shares that she has been studying here since class four and finds the education far superior to any private school. Students like Sneha Kumari and Pinky Kumari also left private schools to join, appreciating the excellent facilities for studies and sports.

The school's discipline standards rival those of any renowned private institution, with student attendance consistently above 90%, and all students wearing ties, belts, and ID cards. It is the only school in Asthawan block whose students have won 27 block-level awards in the Khel Tarang and Daksh programs. They have also secured numerous district-level awards in essay and painting competitions under the National Talent Search Examination and Har Ghar Tiranga campaign.

Suggestions from monthly parent meetings are taken seriously and implemented. Local resident Lalan Yadav recounts that since 'Saurabh Sir' arrived in 2013, the dilapidated school building has been completely transformed. He even funded the construction of a smart classroom from his own pocket. Teachers Aabha Kumari and Sanjeev Kumar Sinha also commend Dr. Saurabh's dedication and inspiring work.

Dr. Saurabh Kumar attributes his success to the entire team, fellow teachers, and the hard work of the children. His father was a retired Block Education Officer, providing him with an educational environment from home. On World Teachers' Day, Dr. Saurabh states that his next goal is to dispel the notion that government schools lack quality education. He encourages rural parents to send their children to government schools without hesitation, as these students are now on par with those from any major private school.