Fr. Siju Mathew: Empowering Underprivileged Communities with Quality Education
In a world where quality education is often seen as a privilege, some individuals are dedicated to breaking down barriers and providing quality education to those who are devoid of it. Fr. Siju Mathew, the Principal of St. Joseph’s Bethany Navajeevan Vidyalaya, is one such remarkable individual who has dedicated his life to making a difference in the lives of the underprivileged through education and holistic development.
Fr. Siju Mathew’s career in education started with a vision that was firmly founded on social transformation. He set out on a mission to establish a facility that would foster a well-rounded growth of pupils in addition to offering high-quality instruction. Therefore, St. Joseph’s Bethany Navajeevan Vidyalaya was established in 2015 under the aegis of Bethany Ashram schools and institutions. The school’s goal is quite clear: “By providing chances for high-quality, reasonably priced education and training, we hope to positively impact society.” This vision promotes character growth, practical thinking, and creativity in addition to academic accomplishment. The driving force behind Mr. Mathew’s efforts is the belief that education can be the catalyst for transformation in communities.
Fr. Siju’s journey is adorned with numerous achievements and accolades that reflect his commitment and passion. One of the cornerstones of his work has been his adherence to inclusivity and empowerment. Recognizing the potential in students from all walks of life, his school focuses on self-defense, extracurricular activities like dance and sports, and inspirational classes for teachers, parents and students that not only impart knowledge but also instill confidence and self-esteem. The awards and recognitions he has received stand as testaments to his exceptional contributions. Among them, the Asian Admirable Achievers Award 2023 and the International Iconic Award 2023 stand out. These awards not only acknowledge his efforts but also inspire others to follow his path of positive change.
Fr. Siju’s impact is not confined to a single institution. His leadership and dedication have touched different facets of education and community development. As the Director of Bethany College of Nursing in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, from 2018 to 2021, his influence extended beyond the classroom. His students took hygiene classes in schools, leaving a mark on public health education. Under his leadership, the college was listed among the top ten nursing colleges in India by Academic Insights Magazine in 2020. The result of his work during the pandemic was especially noteworthy. His service to the government during these trying times displayed his unrelenting resolve towards societal welfare and community well-being.
Looking ahead, Fr. Siju envisions an education system that is not just about academic success but also about producing socially conscious and practically wise individuals. He aims to make teaching goal-oriented, instilling a passion for learning and an ability to analyze and apply knowledge. His vision is even more inspiring – to nurture students who are socially committed, personally motivated, constantly evolving, confident decision-makers, and responsible citizens. This entirely encapsulates the essence of his work and reflects his resolution to build a lasting impact on individuals and society.
