In Gopalpur village, Uttar Pradesh, a remarkable transformation is taking place as the residents embrace eco-consciousness and work towards a cleaner and greener environment. This positive change is attributed to the efforts of Pankaj Kumar, a dedicated teacher at Upper Primary School Semri. Through his initiatives, such as teaching students to create “eco-bricks” from plastic waste, Kumar is not only instilling environmental responsibility but also empowering the village children and their families.
A Mother’s Surprise and a Teacher’s Inspiration
Meera Kumari, a resident of Gopalpur village, experienced a transformative moment when her 10-year-old daughter urged her not to dispose of plastic waste in the regular trash bin. Her daughter explained that their school teacher, Pankaj Kumar, had launched a cleanliness drive, teaching students to make eco-bricks from plastic waste. Kumari was amazed by her daughter’s awareness and felt hopeful about her future as a responsible adult.
From YouTube Inspiration to Tangible Solutions
Pankaj Kumar’s motivation to promote plastic conservation stemmed from a YouTube video he encountered a year ago. The video showcased innovative uses of plastic bottles, including construction materials like houses, tree guards, mats, tables, and pots. Inspired by these ideas, Kumar decided to implement a similar approach in Gopalpur village. The plastic waste is now transformed into eco-bricks by stuffing it into plastic bottles, which are abundantly available in the village.
Students as Agents of Change
Over 100 students from the Upper Primary School Semri actively participate in the production of plastic bricks. These students have become catalysts for change within the village, persuading their parents and the wider community to conserve plastic waste and contribute to the initiative on a weekly basis. Currently, the eco-bricks serve as tree guards, safeguarding plants and fostering their optimal growth. However, Kumar envisions a future where these bricks are used in construction activities throughout the village.
Extending Education and Empowerment
Beyond his teaching duties, Pankaj Kumar is dedicated to bringing about a positive change in Gopalpur village. Through his Gorakhpur-based non-governmental organization, Chandransh Foundation, Kumar endeavours to redefine rural education for underprivileged children. His mission encompasses educating 100 kids, planting 100 trees, and crowdfunding the education expenses of 100 underprivileged students within a year.
Girls Leading the Way
Kumar’s efforts have inspired his former female students to volunteer as tutors for underprivileged children in Gopalpur village. Rani Vishwakarma, a class 12 student, teaches Hindi, English, and Mathematics to these students. Her motivation stems from a desire to become a teacher and shape the future of these children positively. The volunteers receive remuneration for their tuition services, allowing them to afford minor expenses and experience financial independence.
A Village United
The eco-conscious drive initiated by Pankaj Kumar has not only influenced the children but also garnered support from the villagers. Residents actively participate in waste collection efforts to produce more eco-bricks, and they have become mindful of not littering and are enthusiastic about planting more trees. Sanjay Kumar, a worker at a petrol pump and a proud father, expresses his admiration for the teacher’s efforts, highlighting the positive impact on the community’s mindset.
In Gopalpur village, the transformative power of education and environmental consciousness is evident. Pankaj Kumar’s initiatives, centred around creating eco-bricks and empowering the children, have fostered self-reliance, protected the environment, and united the community. Through their collective efforts, they are creating a sustainable future and setting an example for others to follow.
