Asiya Farooqui, from Asti Nagar in Fatehpur district, Uttar Pradesh, is a passionate educator and a true champion of girls’ education. Serving as the sole teacher and principal at a local primary school, she has been instrumental in significantly increasing girls’ enrollment-from just 15% to nearly 47%-through her innovative and inclusive teaching methods. Her dedication to education and community engagement earned her the prestigious National Teacher Award in 2023.
Asiya’s efforts go beyond academics; she works tirelessly to create a supportive environment that encourages families to send their daughters to school and break traditional barriers. By integrating modern technology and interactive learning, she has transformed the school into a vibrant space where girls feel motivated and empowered. Her inspiring work in a rural setting highlights the critical role of committed educators in shaping India’s future, especially in empowering young girls in Uttar Pradesh to pursue education and build better lives.