Professor Aarti Prasad: A Journey of Resilience, Education, and Environmental Advocacy

May 28, 2024

4 Minutes

Professor Aarti Prasad, currently the Head of the Department of Economics at Sukhadia University in Udaipur, has embarked on a remarkable journey that exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative impact of education.

Early Years: Facing Adversity with Determination

Prasad’s journey began in a quaint village in Bhagalpur, Bihar, a region famous for its exquisite Tasar Silk. Her childhood was marked by a bittersweet blend of privilege and hardship. Her grandfather, a former Member of Parliament, instilled in her the profound significance of education. However, life took an unexpected turn when her father passed away prematurely, leaving her mother to raise six children as a single parent.

Undeterred by the challenges they faced, Prasad’s family remained steadfast in their belief in the power of knowledge. At the tender age of three, Prasad left her village to continue her education in Jaipur. This transition marked a significant departure from the world she had known, plunging her into a bustling metropolis vastly different from the tranquility of her village.

Embracing Challenges: Overcoming Linguistic Barriers

Upon her arrival in Jaipur, Prasad encountered an unanticipated impediment: her limited English proficiency. Her lack of fluency became a target of ridicule for some of her peers, threatening to hinder her academic progress. However, Prasad refused to succumb to adversity. She devised a meticulous plan to enhance her English skills, dedicating countless hours to reading newspapers, listening to English news broadcasts, and engaging in conversations with native speakers. Her tenacity and determination paid off handsomely when she emerged as the top student in her examinations.

A New Beginning: Embracing Udaipur as My Home

Fate led Prasad to Udaipur in 1988, where she embarked on a new chapter in her life. She assumed the responsibility of caring for her younger sister while concurrently pursuing her academic aspirations. Her father, who had dedicated his life to serving the nation in Moscow, Russia, remained a steadfast guide throughout her journey.

His words of advice were both empowering and challenging: “You are the elder sister, and as such, you must take care of yourself and forge your own path.”

Building a Career in Academia: Driven by Ambition

Prasad wholeheartedly embraced her role as an educator and an advocate for social change. She pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics, excelling not only in her studies but also in extracurricular activities. Her passion for debating and public speaking sparked within her a fervent desire to make a meaningful contribution to the world.

Throughout her career, Prasad has consistently strived to innovate and push the boundaries of knowledge. She has led numerous research projects, published in prestigious journals, and mentored countless students.

Environmental Advocacy: A Calling to Serve

Prasad’s research interests have primarily focused on vector control and environmental science. She has dedicated her efforts to developing innovative solutions to combat mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and chikungunya. Her contributions to this field have earned her recognition from the Indian Academy of Science and the Vijay Sherawat Award for Environmental Science.

Transforming the Department: A Legacy of Sustainability

In her role as the Head of the Department of Economics, Prasad has been committed to fostering a culture of environmental sustainability within the department. She has implemented zero-waste initiatives, established a vermi-compost unit, and transformed the department’s waste into valuable resources for their garden.

Under Prasad’s leadership, the department has become a beacon of sustainable practices, serving as a model for the entire university. She firmly believes that even small steps can have a far-reaching impact.

Personal Reflections: Lessons Learned from Adversity

Prasad’s journey has taught her the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. She has learned that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and that setbacks are merely stepping stones on the path to success.

She expresses her heartfelt gratitude to her family, colleagues, and mentors who have been her guiding lights throughout her life. She attributes her resilience to the legacy of her grandfather and her determination to the unwavering spirit of her mother.

A Message of Hope: Embracing Life’s Journey

Prasad’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams. She urges everyone to embrace their challenges with courage and determination. She reminds us that the journey itself is as important as the destination.

Prasad concludes her message with a poignant reminder: “Keep your head held high, face the sun, and let the shadows fall behind.”