Jenapur: Hemant Ojha is a stone cutter’s son but determination, dedication and hard work has helped him getting a job opportunity in NASA.
Hemant of Raichhanda (Kamarsahi) village under Dharmasala block in Jajpur district will fly to the US to join NASA, February 22. Celebrations erupted in his village when the news of Hemant’s achievement became public.
“Hemant’s father Arjun Ojha is a laterite stone cutter. Despite acute poverty, our village lad has been selected to work as a scientist with NASA. It is no mean achievement. He has brought laurels not only to our village and district, but it is also a proud occasion for Odisha,” said a couple of residents in Hemant’s village.
Hemant who stays with his parents, three brothers and a sister talked about his achievements. He however, was very humble while talking to this correspondent.
Q: What was your aim during your studies?
A: I have always been dreaming of become a scientist.
Q: Who inspired you to become a scientist and who is your role model?
A: I had the desire to become a scientist since my school days. My elder brother Gaurang, teachers and lecturers at schools and colleges have been my guiding stars and their encouragement played a crucial role.
Q: What is your target during your stint at NASA?
A: I want to know and let the whole world know everything about aliens. I want to do a lot of research in this field.
Q: What are the challenges you encountered during your march towards your goals?
A: Poverty. When I was a student, my family had lot of financial problems. Somehow we managed.
Q: What is your message for students?
A: The future rests on today’s students. They have to first set a goal for themselves and weave dreams around it. Get attracted towards science and work hard to achieve their goals. Nothing is impossible if one determines to achieve something.
PNN
