Coming from a state like Bihar where government service jobs are held in high esteem, quitting such a job is a huge and difficult step. Nevertheless, Mr. Akhilesh Kumar, who was the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) in Kishanganj, Bihar, took the decision to quit his police service in the year 2019 and enter the field of education. He had cleared Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam in 2013 and was ranked 9th.
POLICE OFFICER TO MENTOR
“Changing my career was my personal decision and I took this step after much contemplation,” Mr. Kumar told Indian Masterminds.
He tried to identify his potential and realized that there were many already performing excellently in the administrative field, but he had a different calling. “My calling would serve society better and at a larger scale,” said the 2013 batch officer.
His passion for education since his youth had already germinated in his heart to create a better society.
So after six years in his job, one day he decided to quit and start working for the youth by providing them with mentorship and general guidance. Working within his comfort zone never allured him. “When you have to set an example, you have to sacrifice,” he added.
COVID LOCKDOWN
Mr. Kumar started his mentorship journey alone. His education at the Navodya Vidyalaya helped secure big networks though. Networking creatively during the Covid, Mr Kumar created a global model.
As Covid measures eased, the former officer and his team went among the downtrodden youth and started providing mentorship to all those who aspired to crack the civil services and competitive exams besides providing general guidance that they sought.
The help is available both online and offline. Mr. Kumar has a team of people who are experts in different subjects and fields. The team reaches out to schools on a regular basis.
“The mentorship is free of cost and youth are always welcomed with their queries,” Mr. Kumar added.
ADMINISTRATIVE JOB VS TEACHING
So, how have the years shaped his views about his two careers, Mr. Kumar says that the administrative job was about maintaining law and order and dealing with criminals. But teaching is a creative and satisfying job.
“You need patience in both jobs, the core concept is somewhat similar,” he said. He has no qualms about his previous career, however, he finds teaching more creative.
“I was in the service for 6 years, however, I am 10 times more satisfied in the path I am on now.,” he shared.
MESSAGE TO THE YOUTH
Mr. Kumar advises the youth to make education their tool. He says if youths are educated, no political or religious alignment can misguide or misuse them.
According to him, students should have books, computers and gadgets in their hands because they are the future of our country.
At present, he is providing guidance to over 1,000 students across the country.
The former officer also has a YouTube channel where he posts videos to guide those who need them. Many of his students have been selected for the state civil services.
