“A good teacher is like a candle — it consumes itself to light the way for others,” Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, considered the founding father of the Republic of Turkey, had said.
On Wednesday, on the second day of the Adamas University Kolkata presents The Telegraph School Awards for Excellence 2024 North Bengal, The Telegraph Education Foundation (TTEF) honoured four teachers at Dinabandhu Mancha in Siliguri for
their pivotal roles in shaping the lives of hundreds of students.
The four were felicitated for influencing the students’ academic paths and ensuring their moral and social development.
Susmita Sanyal receives Dr A P O’Brien Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award for a Teacher.
Ajoy Chowdhury
Award: Dr A P O’Brien Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award for a Teacher
Years of experience and school: Chowdhury began his career as an assistant teacher under the royal government of Bhutan in 1981 and joined Mahbert High School, Dagapur, Siliguri, in 1982. He has been teaching there for 42 years, continuing to inspire students with enthusiasm and dedication.
Why he got the honour: Chowdhury was recognised for his use of innovative teaching techniques to make complex topics accessible and enjoyable, providing extra support to students in need. He had been a mentor and role model to countless students, fostering their growth as responsible individuals and inspiring them to achieve their best.
Sukram Tamang
Award: Dr A P O’Brien Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award for a Teacher
Years of experience and school: Sukram Tamang started as a volunteer teacher at Margaret’s Hope High School, Kurseong, and became the headmaster. He served the institution with unwavering dedication for 34 years until his retirement in 2015.
Why he got the honour: Tamang was recognised for improving educational access for children from tea plantations. He played a key role in the school’s upgrade and ensured student retention through supplementary nutrition programmes and financial support. His tireless commitment enabled many underprivileged students to achieve higher education.
Susmita Sanyal
Award: Dr A P O’Brien Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award for a Teacher
Years of experience and school: Sanyal began her career in 1986 at Mahbert School, Siliguri, teaching biology and chemistry for 27 years. She joined G.D. Goenka Public School, Siliguri, in 2014, where she continues to serve as the head of the biology department. She has been in the profession for around 40 years.
Why she got the honour: Sanyal is recognised for her exceptional teaching that makes science engaging and accessible for students. Her nurturing approach and counselling skills have inspired generations of students, many of whom have become successful professionals in science and medicine.
Hillol Chakraborty
Award: TTEF Honour for an Educationist
Years of experience and school: Hillol Chakraborty has been teaching since 1989 in Tilabari, a remote village near Gorumara National Park in Jalpaiguri. Though not associated with any formal school, he has dedicated over three decades to educating rural children from his home.
Why he got the honour: Chakraborty is honoured for his dedication to educating rural and tribal children, focusing on instilling confidence in English among students in remote areas. Despite personal hardships, he continued teaching and sheltering students, transforming countless lives.
