Ranchi: For Surendra Kumar (61), then principal of Shraddhanand Sevaashram Middle School at Ratu Road, the world came crashing down when he lost Sukirt, his only son, in a road accident in 2017. A student at St. Xavier’s College, Sukirt meant the world to Kumar and his wife.

With his son dead, Kumar turned to his profession for healing. Since then, he began devoting nearly all of his time to the school and its students. Though Kumar retired in April this year, he remains associated with the school as a teacher and continues to serve the institute for free.

“Sukirt was our only support. After school hours, we devoted time to him. But after his death, time lost its value for us. That is when I decided that instead of staying at home, I should remain with my students,” Kumar said.

After his retirement, Kumar submitted a request to remain attached with the school. And the management committee of the school agreed. Over the years, Kumar not only devoted his time and effort to educate the students but also made personal donations. Last year, he donated CCTV cameras and computers to strengthen the school’s security and help in digital learning of its students.

“Now I teach free of cost. It gives me self-satisfaction and helps me keep alive the dreams I had for my son. If I can shape even a few children into what I wished for him, my purpose will be fulfilled.”

The district education officials are aware of his service. “We offered him an extension, but he declined as he wished to continue in the same school. After his retirement, he is now considering this as his service to the community,” district superintendent of education (DSE) Badal Raj told TOI.