Nizampur boy becomes the first to pass class X in the Uttar Pradesh village since independence

A village near Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh erupted in celebration as Ramkeval, a 15-year-old boy from the Dalit community, became the first student from Nizampur to pass Class X since Independence. A student of the Government Inter College in Ahmedpur, Ramkeval has broken a decades-long cycle of educational exclusion in his village.

The eldest of four siblings, Ramkeval previously worked carrying lights at wedding processions, earning just Rs 250–300 a day. With his days consumed by work, he found time only at night to study—often under a solar lamp installed in the village. Despite returning home late and receiving little encouragement from his community, he remained determined, studying at least two hours each night to prepare for his exams.

Overwhelmed at times by the struggles around him, Ramkeval often feared he wouldn’t succeed. Yet, he persevered and became the only student from Nizampur to appear for the Class X board exams—and to pass.

On Sunday, Barabanki District Magistrate Shashank Tripathi honoured Ramkeval and his parents, praising his grit and assuring continued support for his education, including financial assistance for the family. His mother works as a cook at a local school, while his father earns a living as a labourer. Ramkeval’s three younger siblings are also enrolled in school, with the eldest in Class IX, one in Class V, and the youngest in Class I.

Ramkeval’s achievement has sparked hope in the village, inspiring others to consider pursuing education. While government schools exist in Nizampur, low enrolment has long persisted due to poverty and lack of awareness. His success story may just be the beginning of a new chapter for the village.