In the heart of Johor, Malaysia, resides a remarkable individual whose life story serves as a inspiration of hope and determination. Mr Prakash A/L Surriyamurthy, a visually impaired tutor who has been changing lives through education for over 15 years. His journey from a passionate learner to a dedicated tutor in Bahasa Melayu and Sejarah (History) is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative impact of education. This is his story.
A Humble Beginning
Mr Prakash’s journey into the world of teaching began as a means to earn a side income. While his primary interest lay in counseling and motivational speaking, having delivered lectures at universities and involvement with NGOs, where he helped clients struggling academically with Bahasa Malaysia, he discovered a profound calling in education. The positive responses from his students encouraged him to pursue this path more seriously. Over time, he expanded his teaching repertoire to include History, and today, he stands as a respected tutor with a rich experience of 15 years.
The Making of Dedicated Tutor
Despite the challenge of visual impairment, Mr Prakash was a hardworking student himself. In school, he utilised every available resource, from braille materials to volunteer readers, ensuring he stayed ahead in his studies. This dedication laid a strong foundation for his future career in education.
Mr Prakash’s decision to become a tutor was driven by a desire to break free from the conventional career paths available to the visually impaired, such as desk jobs in customer service or as operators. He yearned for a role that would allow him to connect with the community on a personal level. Believing deeply in the power of education to build strong communities, Mr Prakash found his purpose in teaching.
Mr Prakash’s journey was not without its hurdles. One of the biggest challenges was overcoming the scepticism of parents. Many questioned how a visually impaired tutor could effectively teach their children. However, Mr Prakash’s results spoke volumes. His students consistently achieved good grades and showed significant improvement, dispelling doubts and earning the trust of many.
The Joy of Giving
For Mr Prakash, teaching is not just a profession; it’s a philosophy of life. He firmly believes that “the more you give, the more you get.” Sharing the priceless gift of education brings him immense joy and fulfilment. The exchange of knowledge fosters critical thinking and keeps him intellectually stimulated. Discussing history with his students, he finds it fascinating to compare perspectives across generations, enriching his own understanding of the subject.
Mr Prakash’s goals extend beyond academic success for his students. He aims to shape them into well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society. Education, in his view, is not just about grades but about unveiling the values of humanity in each student. He dreams of continuing his teaching journey as long as he can, while also aspiring to be a successful motivational speaker. Mr Prakash hopes to inspire people to dream big, persevere, and embrace life’s challenges with courage.
A Message to the World
Mr Prakash’s story is one of unwavering willpower and hope. He wishes for his journey to inspire others to see opportunities within challenges. “Where there is a will, there is a way,” he says. Mr Prakash believes that life is a series of opportunities, and with effort and the right direction, success is within reach. He encourages everyone to share his story, not only to support his growth, but to inject inspirations into their own lives.
In a world that often emphasises limitations, Mr Prakash stands as a powerful reminder that with passion and perseverance, no challenge is insurmountable. His life is a great example of the transformative power of education and the boundless possibilities that lie within each of us.
Watch the full interview here.
If you would like to get in touch with Mr Prakash and know more about his tutoring service, contact him at +6010-5418178 or visit him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/captainprakash_1234/