Beyond books: How a professor is transforming lives through inclusive education in Assam

Guwahati: In the tranquil heart of Assam, far from the clamor of city life and the race for academic prestige, a quiet yet powerful revolution is unfolding.At its helm is Professor Dilip Borah, a name that may not yet echo in the halls of fame but resonates deeply in the lives he touches.As a distinguished faculty of the Department of MIL and Literary Studies at Gauhati University, Professor Borah is more than an academic; he is a visionary, a mentor, and a humanitarian committed to the transformative power of education.Driven by a profound belief that true education engages both the mind and the soul, professor Borah founded the Uttaran Trust in 2014. Nestled in Bhitorkhola near the historic Madan Kamdev temple, this non-profit initiative was born from a moral imperative to uplift the often-overlooked children of tribal and marginalised communities.

The Trust embodies a philosophy of inclusive and holistic education, drawing from rich Indian spiritual traditions while embracing a forward-thinking vision.At the heart of Uttaran’s mission is Aashroy, a sanctuary and educational haven for underprivileged children. Here, young minds from diverse backgrounds find not just shelter and schooling, but dignity, attention, and a nurturing environment where their dreams are cherished.

“These children are not just given education; they are offered a future,” professor Borah passionately said.From this foundation, the Jyotibharati Jatiya Vidyapeeth emerged, a school that defies convention. Every element, from its curriculum to its faculty, reflects Professor Borah’s conviction that education should enrich both intellect and character. “At Jyotibharati, students learn to live with purpose and humility,” he explains.Extending his vision into higher education, the Jyotibharati Institute of Education and Research champions interdisciplinary learning and research on contemporary issues, all while upholding the core belief in human values. The institute also hosts the International Centre for Peace, Conflict & Culture Studies, a hub for global scholars and peace activists dedicated to cultural resilience and intellectual exchange.Professor Borah’s unwavering commitment to truth and human betterment is further exemplified by his upcoming initiative, Jyoti Sangha. Inspired by “Jyoti: Jiwanar Baat” (Light the Way of Life), this spiritual movement seeks to liberate faith from ignorance and dogma, advocating for a harmonious blend of spirituality, reason, and ethical responsibility.In a world often driven by competition and personal ambition, Professor Dilip Borah stands as a beacon of hope, proving that education, when rooted in compassion and service, can indeed change the world.