Somashis Gupta, Editor of Epic Words, shares the inspiring story of Epic Public School, Coochbehar, transforming Mendabari village through education and earning accolades from The Telegraph Education Foundation Trust. A celebration of impactful community-driven change.
After a knackering day yesterday, I was just settling in for a bit of a breather when my phone started buzzing like an overly eager doorbell. I shot it a withering look, but as soon as I saw it was Biswajit, a grin crept across my face. This’ll be good news, I thought. You see, I knew he and Sanjukta were off to Siliguri with a mission in mind.
I still recall when Biswajit sent me the announcement for the contest organised by The Telegraph Education Foundation Trust. The moment I clapped eyes on it, I thought, Well, there’s only one name that’s going to take the crown—Epic. And why not? The efforts Epic Public School has poured into Mendabari village are nothing short of phenomenal. It’s the kind of work that makes you want to doff your cap and give a hearty bravo!
They say, “It takes a village to raise a child,” but Epic has turned that on its head, proving that sometimes, it takes a school to raise a village. When I visited Mendabari a few years back, Biswajit took me on a little tour and explained their project. I must admit, I was gobsmacked. On one hand, we have schools in India treating education as if it were some sort of cash cow, and on the other, there’s Epic—a school adopting an entire village not just to educate but to drive its overall development. Quite the contrast, wouldn’t you say?
So, when my phone rang today, I had a fair inkling it was some smashing news. I answered with a cheeky grin and said, “So, more good news, is it?”
Biswajit chuckled and replied, “Yes, we’ve been awarded by The Telegraph Education Foundation Trust.”
“I knew it! Congratulations! How’s it feel?” I asked, already knowing his modesty would take the reins.
He answered with his usual humility, “It feels good to be recognised, of course, but I’ll be truly happy when the children of Mendabari succeed in life, just like the rest of my students at Epic Public School, Coochbehar.”
“And they will,” I assured him with conviction.
After we disconnected, I sat quietly for quite some time, lost in a brown study. The phrase, “A rising tide lifts all boats,” flowed into my mind, and I thought how fitting it was in this case, Epic Public School is truly that tide, that has taken the task to lift an entire community. I realized that true education isn’t just about grades and textbooks—it’s about kindling hope, nurturing humanity, and shaping a brighter future for everyone. Now, if that’s not something worth celebrating, I don’t know what is! Cheers to the entire Epic Team!
