“I always dreamed of being a teacher” – Sir Avishkar Jaikaran

The feeling of satisfaction every time we are confronted with the results of our hard work and sacrifices is one that becomes incomparable. But for the past seven years, Avishkar Jaikaran has been living his dreams every day that he steps into his classroom. 

For Jaikaran, the question was never what he wanted to do, but rather, when he would begin doing it. The dream for him has always been to enter the teaching profession not because it is a advantageous field, but because he believes his purpose is filled there.

This budding Chief stated that he grew up in Kitty, Georgetown, where he attended the Gacestock Nursery School and then Rama Krishna Primary School. His family then moved over to Zeelugt on the East Bank of Essequibo (EBE), where he was transferred to the Meten-Meer-Zorg Primary School.

He then sat his Secondary School Entrance Examination (SSEE) in 2006 and earned himself a place at St. Rose’s High School with the option of attending President’s College. However, he opted to attend St. Rose’s High and has now deemed it as a revolutionary experience. 

“I shared my childhood experiences with my two older brothers, Deo, and Nandkishore. My brothers taught me some valuable lessons; for example, there is dignity in labour and that it is through hard work and dedication that we can achieve anything we wish for. Both of my brothers were instrumental in my educational pursuits.” 

Going back to his formative years, the English and Science teacher at the Stewartville Secondary School said that in the middle part of 2013, he began working in the private sector but realized that he wanted betterment regarding a number of factors. Throughout his school life, he had some exceptional and inspirational teachers who would have helped to mould him into the man he is today. 

“I vividly remember Ms. Ann Barnes, Mr. Mohan, and Ms. Rose, among other teachers at Meten – Meer – Zorg Primary. At St. Rose’s High, I drew inspiration and enlightenment from an exceptional team of high caliber educators, to name a few, Mr. Blackman, Mr. Fernandez, Ms. Alleyne, Ms. Swammy, Ms. King, Ms. Lewis, Ms. George, and so many others.” 

This prompted him to apply at the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), and within a few weeks, he was interviewed and was ready to take up his position in the profession on 2nd September 2013. He started teaching Food and Nutrition and then Information Technology. 

“The teaching profession is fulfilling and gives you a feeling of satisfaction because of the way you’re able to positively influence lives. Subconsciously, I had always dreamed of being a teacher and being able to make such positive differences. In retrospect, it took some maturing to realize that teaching was the profession for me.

In September of 2016, he commenced his studies at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), where he majored in English Literature. He then graduated in 2018. 

“My belief that teaching was indeed the profession for me was cemented by the examples set by Ms. Glenis King, Mr. Montague, Ms. Kamal, and many other distinguished educators there.” 

While the young teacher admits that he is not successful in every aspect of his life as yet, Sir Jaikaran credited his success to the Almighty God, whom he believes is the author of it all. In addition, he had a good support system.

“To my support system, my friends and family whose unconditional love and support have worked miracles; to my students and the future of my country; and to my determination, strength, and courage to prove wrong those who have underestimated me.” 

Though there is a heightened level of violence against teachers, Jaikaran said that he is not deterred. He is in the profession to stay and will continue moulding the minds of the future generations.

“This reality makes me sad and is worrisome, but it has not deterred me from this profession. Violence is as a result of conflicts and misunderstandings in many cases, and I believe that we have to work together to be able to unite; we need campaigns, respect, and inclusivity to be able to have a social transformation that would essentially educate our children and our society against violence.” 

His advice to anyone wanting to join the teaching profession is simple; 

“I encourage you. It is a fulfilling, respectable, and heartily satisfying profession. I believe that a life spent in service of others is a happy and gratifying life.” 

As the world continues to battle with the coronavirus, he explained that he misses the face-to-face interactions with all of his students. He noted that using online platforms are not the same. To this end, Sir Jaikaran noted that he has been touched by the articles which chronicle an increase in cases of child abuse since the lockdown due to COVID-19. 

“I would like to advise parents and guardians to be wise in choosing who they leave their children with while they’re at work or otherwise. I encourage all children who may be experiencing some form of abuse or hurt to speak out; tell someone, tell anyone, tell everyone you meet until it stops.” 

Asked whether this is a career he will continue until retirement, Jaikaran, without a bit of hesitation, replied, “yes.” 

“I believe that education would solve a major portion of the issues which plague our society and hinders its development, and I wish to be a part of that solution. Hence, I see a career in education as my choice of a lifelong career.” 

In the very near future, Sir Jaikaran intends to complete his Bachelors’ Degree in Education, which would be followed by his Masters’ Degree in Education and ultimately his Doctoral Degree since he has plans on becoming a Professor.