Earning while learning: Balasore college student dons hairdresser’s hat to fund his studies 

There are some who are out to chase their dreams no matter what hurdles come their way. A lad from Mayurbhanj district, Rupak Dalei can be counted as one of them for going the extra mile to achieve his set goal. 

Brimming with confidence and determination, Rupak, who hails from Nachhipur village under Kaptipada block in Mayurbhanj district, is currently pursuing his higher studies at Fakir Mohan Junior College in Balasore. 

Back in the village, his father works as a daily labourer to meet the family expenses. With his meagre income, he finds it very difficult to run his family. 

Well aware of his family’s financial condition and not to be a burden on his father, Rupak has found a way to earn something to meet his education cost. 

And what he is doing requires a set of skilled hands. He has donned a hairdresser’s hat. He dresses his colleagues’ hair and in turn, they give him something with which he meets his educational cost.

“Since my family’s financial condition is not good, I have to do several things to earn something to meet my education cost. When I am in Balasore, I cut my classmates' hair. And when I am in my village, I go to a nearby forest to collect firewood and sell them in the market. But I always keep it in mind that I should never neglect my study,” said Rupak. 

Due to his dedication and determination, he is in the good books of his classmates and teachers. 

“He is good at his study. He has been securing good marks in the examinations. He is working hard to complete his higher education. He is earning while learning by cutting his classmates' hair,” said the principal of the college. 

(Reported by Rashmi Ranjan Das, OTV)