West Bengal’s ‘Teacher of

Education

West Bengal’s ‘Teacher of the Streets’ Deep Narayan Nayak Joins India’s National Mentoring Mission

In a significant recognition of grassroots innovation in education, Deep Narayan Nayak, Head Teacher of Jamuria Namopara Free Primary School in West Bengal and popularly known as the “Teacher of the Streets,” has been selected as a Mentor under the National Mission for Mentoring (NMM), a national initiative implemented by the National Council for Teacher Education under the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

The mentoring programme, envisioned under the National Education Policy 2020, aims to create a nationwide network of experienced educators who can guide and support teachers through mentorship, collaboration, and the sharing of innovative teaching practices to strengthen the quality of school education across India.

Deep Narayan Nayak currently serves as the Head Teacher of Jamuria Namopara Free Primary School in Paschim Bardhaman district. Over the years, he has earned widespread appreciation for his commitment to making education accessible to children from marginalized and economically disadvantaged communities.

Often referred to as both the “Teacher of the Streets” and the “Human Blackboard,” Nayak has been known for taking learning beyond the traditional classroom and bringing education directly into communities. His efforts have focused on reaching children who are often left behind in conventional schooling systems and encouraging families to become active partners in the learning process.

One of his most notable contributions is the Three-Generation Learning Model, an innovative approach that encourages children, parents, and grandparents to learn together. The model has helped strengthen family participation in education, increased awareness about learning in rural communities, and created a culture of lifelong learning within families.

Nayak has also gained exposure to international education practices. Through educational visits and conferences in Finland, Paris, and Malaysia, he observed several child-centric and creative teaching approaches. Inspired by these experiences, he introduced similar participatory and innovative learning practices in his own school. According to fellow teachers, these initiatives have significantly improved students’ interest in learning and enhanced the overall teaching–learning environment at the school.

The news of his selection has brought joy to students and teachers at Jamuria Namopara Free Primary School. Many students expressed pride in their head teacher’s achievement, while colleagues described the recognition as a moment of celebration for the entire school community.

Local residents and community members in Jamuria have also welcomed the recognition. They noted that Nayak has long worked not only as a teacher but also as a community motivator who inspires families to value education and encourages children to pursue learning.

Congratulating him on the achievement, the District Magistrate of Paschim Bardhaman said,
“The empanelment of Mr. Deep Narayan Nayak as a Mentor under the National Mission for Mentoring is a matter of great pride for our district. His dedication to community-based education and his innovative initiatives truly reflect the vision of the National Education Policy. We are confident that his experience and commitment will inspire teachers across the country.”

Expressing his gratitude, Nayak said,
“I feel deeply honoured to be selected as a Mentor under the National Mission for Mentoring. This opportunity will allow me to share my grassroots experiences with fellow educators across India and also learn from them. I believe that when teachers collaborate and communities actively participate in education, it creates meaningful and lasting social change.”

Educators and community members in Paschim Bardhaman have welcomed his selection, describing it as a proud moment for the district and an inspiring example of how dedicated teachers working at the grassroots level can contribute to shaping the future of education in India.