Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir – In a world where limitations often define one’s boundaries, Manbir Singh, a wheelchair-user educator from Kathua, is proving that determination, passion, and innovation can break every barrier—both physical and societal.
Currently posted at Government Middle School Chack Sheikhan Kathua under the Department of Education, Jammu and Kashmir UT, Manbir Singh recently made headlines by achieving a rare international distinction. He became the only Divyang (differently-abled) teacher from J&K UT to qualify the ‘Google Certified Educator Level 2’ international examination—an achievement that not only puts his school on the global map but also inspires countless others in the education fraternity.
“Though I use a wheelchair, I’ve never allowed my disability to define my capabilities. My aim is to empower students through new and modern educational practices,” says Manbir with unwavering confidence.
Manbir Singh is not just a teacher by profession, but a visionary leader in action. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when classrooms went dark and learning paused for many, he emerged as a beacon of light. His dedicated efforts during the crisis were formally recognized by the then Director of School Education and then Director SAMAGRA Shiksha Jammu. He is also Certified by American Board as Neuro Linguistic Programmer and Certified career mentor by Psyuni India.
Apart from this is also an author of the book titled “From Good To Great: The Path to Transformation and Growth”
Beyond the classroom, he has worn many hats with excellence—serving as State Nodal Officer, State Coordinator, Master Trainer ICT and District Nodal Officer for various prestigious programs and educational initiatives. His leadership in implementing coding education under the SAMAGRA Shiksha scheme led to his students’ projects winning top honors at the 2022 Coding Hackathon.
His contribution to shaping young minds and modernizing education has not gone unnoticed. In both 2023 and 2024, Manbir was twice recognized as a Best Teacher by district authorities—further cementing his role as a change-maker in the education system.
“Despite multiple disabilities, I’ve remained consistent in my duties and work each day to be a role model for society,” he reflects.
Manbir’s recent recognition by Google is more than just a certificate—it’s a statement. It symbolizes resilience, innovation, and the undying spirit of a man determined to bring world-class education to rural classrooms.
This international certification is not just a personal milestone for Manbir Singh. It is a matter of pride for his school, the Department of Education, and the entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
In a society often quick to place limits on what people with disabilities can achieve, Manbir Singh is scripting a different narrative—one of courage, commitment, and educational excellence. His story is not just inspirational—it’s transformational.
