Sopore teacher wins accolades for contribution in education sector

Srinagar, Jan 9: A government school teacher from north Kashmir's Sopore town has won accolades for her dedication and contribution in the education sector.

Sufeena's remarkable journey in the education department spans over a decade, and her dedication has not gone unnoticed.

Last year, Sufeena Bano was awarded the prestigious Women Mentor of the Year-2023-Icons of Asia by Global Empire, in a grand ceremony held on December 22, 2023.

Before that she was bestowed with the Best Teacher Award by the J&K Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha on September 5 of 2023.

According to Sufeena, she has been the recipient of around 50 awards she received during her delightful journey in the education department since 2012, for shaping young minds.

Talking to Greater Kashmir, Sufeena said she has been also shortlisted for All India Women Achievement Award as well. "The function was supposed to be held on December 17 of 2023 but was rescheduled and is likely to be held in February this year," she said.

Sufeena shared insights into her 12-year journey, emphasizing the transformative power of education.

"I believe in the participative nature of influence as the involvement of students is paramount in shaping their lives. I never see myself too small to make a change. My passion is the source of my energy, and teaching is my passion," she said.

Encouraged with the recognition of her dedication and hard work at national and international level, Sufeena says that her commitment to students goes beyond the classroom.

"A teacher should always envision himself/herself as a catalyst for positive change and should strive to transform the students into well-rounded individuals," she told Greater Kashmir. Her enthusiasm and dedication have earned her accolades, not only as an exceptional teacher but also as a mentor and leader.

In addition to her role as an educator, Sufeena has taken on diverse responsibilities, serving as the Zonal Cultural Coordinator for Sopore (2018-20) and contributing to teacher training for literary missions.

She has always remained engaged in different mega events at various levels which according to her, was possible due to her commitment to fostering a holistic educational experience.

"I have not contributed only in offline mode of education but have contributed in online mode of education as well. Besides, I have actively participated in social awareness programs, nation-building initiatives, community mobilization, and campaigns for feminine health management," she told Greater Kashmir.

For Sufeena, teaching is a profession full of thrill and adventure.

"As a teacher I consider it my strength to explore new things, to update myself, to learn and unlearn the things and I assure myself along with my students that we can do things differently from everyone else," she said.

Terming the students as her real assets, Sufeena said that it gives her inner satisfaction to have made a positive impact on the lives of her students by showing care and concern for their well-being.

"In my 11 years in the department, I have worked in schools from middle to higher secondary level and at every workplace, I have confidently been welcoming my students to show that I see who they are going to be and encourage them in participating in the life of the classroom," she said.