Kargil War shaped his childhood, innovation shaped his classroom: Meet National Teacher Awardee Mohd Mustafa

Mohd Mustafa Kamal, a 41-year-old school teacher from Wakha village near Kargil, is one of the shortlisted recipients for the National Teachers Award 2026. His teaching career, shaped by his own experiences of conflict and education during Kargil War, has led him to innovate and provide engaging learning experiences for his students.

During his tenure at Government Model Middle School Grong Pashkum, Mustafa converted derelict military bunkers into experimental labs, turning abstract concepts into tangible experiences for his students. The horizontal sand bunkers were repurposed into a prehistoric lab where students could visualize ancient dwellings and daily lives.

In an endeavor to make civics more engaging, Mustafa created a classroom resembling a parliament. Students were divided into ruling and opposition parties, with Mustafa as the speaker. This unique seating arrangement encouraged debate and understanding of democratic processes. To make the subject less intimidating, Mustafa introduced Great Bath Ludo, a game based on the ancient civilization of Mohenjo-Daro, along with other educational games.

Mustafa's commitment to transforming education was not without personal sacrifices. Growing up in a single-parent household, his father was the sole provider for the family. Mustafa's dedication to his studies was fueled by his father's unwavering support and sacrifices. Even though he once aspired to be a cricket player, the financial constraints forced him to prioritize education over his sports dreams.