Lalringthara, born in 1945, defies age barriers to embark on a remarkable journey of learning and education. At the age of 78, he enrolls in the National Shiksha Abhiyan High School in Ruaikon village, located in Champhai district, Mizoram. Hailing from Lagoa Khuangleng, a small village near the Indo-Myanmar border, Lalringthara’s determination and passion for learning set a high standard for all generations.
Every day, the elderly gentleman walks 3 kilometers along a hilly road, carrying a bag filled with books, to attend school. Inside the classroom, Lalringthara sits with children of similar age to his grandchildren, eager to grasp new knowledge and skills.
According to Lalringthara, his father passed away when he was a student in the 2nd standard. This tragic event left all the responsibilities on his young shoulders as he was the only child in the family. To support his family and make a living, he worked diligently on the farm alongside his mother. Later, they moved to Harukawan Village, where his mother enrolled him in the 5th grade. Despite his efforts, Lalringthara’s aspiration for academic achievement could not be fully realized at that time.
In his 70s, he returned to school, completing up to 8th standard. Undeterred by the limitations of the village school, which offered education only up to 8th standard, the determined elderly student took admission in 9th grade at a school in Ruaikon.
Lalringthara’s aspirations extend beyond the 9th grade; he aims to become proficient in the English language. Expressing his fondness for writing and listening to English news, he seeks higher education opportunities. Alongside his studies, Lalringthara also works as a security guard in a local church.