He's the set watchman

Life is a roller-coaster ride.  This especially holds true in the case of 34-year-old Rajmal Meena, who recently cracked the JNU entrance exam and will now be pursuing B.A. (Hons) Russian at the University. His case is particularly inspiring as he was employed as a security guard five years ago at the very campus where he is now a student.

Born in an economically weak family, Rajmal’s father made only Rs 50-60 every day, which is barely enough to survive. But despite his limited opportunities, his grit, determination and a desire to be educated helped him conquer every challenge. Last year, he graduated in History, Political Science and Hindi via distance learning from Rajasthan University.

In an interview with ANI, he revealed his ambitions, “I want to visit Russia someday. I want to see its culture and lifestyle. Russia is a good country.” He also expresses that though he has classes in the University now, he would have to see how to shuffle both his responsibilities.

Studying during the day and working through the night seems to be an impossible task to do. But, Naveen Yadav, Chief Security Officer, JNU, says that all help would be provided to Rajmal so that he can complete his studies without any hassle.

Nitin, member, JNUSU (Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union), says, “JNU is the only place where we say that education is not a commodity, not a product; but it’s our right. It is what we fight for.” He then adds, “We feel happy when the whole thing what we are fighting for is being achieved.”

“The security guard who used to safeguard us and ask us about our well-being, we wholeheartedly welcome him into the school and we will always be there to support him,'' Nitin continues. On the subject of whether integrating him into the University is enough or not, he responds, “We have to keep fighting. The University has suffered severe attacks in the past but it has never surrendered to them.”

Smriti Sabbarwal, a research scholar, JNU, opines, “The guards have to be vigilant all the time and have to be very careful about students. Despite the hectic schedule, if somebody could work and still achieve their dreams, I think it is a good learning for all the students.”

As soon as the news reached social media, wishes and words of wisdom poured in for the student. Ashok Gehlot, Rajasthan CM, tweeted, “My heartiest Congratulations to Karauli #Rajasthan's, Ramjal Meena for clearing the #JNU entrance examination for admission into BA Russian (Hons), while working as a security guard in the same University. (sic).”

Meena’s story is a testimony to the fact that one can succeed in the field of education with a bit of hard work and dedication, no matter what the obstacles are.