A video of a professor selling vegetables is gaining rapid viral attention on social media. The incident has left many astonished as the person selling vegetables holds four master’s degrees and a Ph.D. Despite acquiring such high levels of education, when his job didn’t support his family’s expenses, he began selling vegetables from a cart.
In the streets of Amritsar, one can find this person with a cart that bears a sign stating, “Ph.D. Vegetable Seller.” Dr. Sandeep Singh, after completing four MAs and a Ph.D., is now selling vegetables in the lanes of Amritsar. Dr. Sandeep Singh, a professor at Punjab University and also an ad-hoc, expressed that he feels no shame in doing this work as his mentors have conveyed the message of embracing all kinds of work.
He regrets that despite his academic achievements, the university did not value his education. Dr. Sandeep Singh, who is presently on leave, is earning his livelihood by selling vegetables. He is also pursuing a B.Lib course from Lovely University. Dr. Singh mentioned that he has been a professor at Punjab University for the last 11 years and used to receive a salary of 35,000 during his tenure as a lecturer. However, his salary was inconsistent, sometimes coming in only for seven months in a year. He questions how he can teach children when he himself is a victim of exploitation.
Dr. Singh mentioned that he faces no problem with this situation, but the university has not acknowledged his education. He has not been given a regular position, and excuses of political pressure are made by the university authorities. Positions are being offered to those recommended by influential people. Dr. Sandeep Singh highlighted that he has been selling vegetables since July. In the meantime, a woman inquired about his education, after which he placed the board on his cart to reveal his qualifications. He earns more from selling vegetables than from the university.
This was an act of necessity as it was increasingly challenging to manage household expenses. His family comprises his wife, a son, brother, sister, and mother. Dr. Singh expressed that once circumstances improve, he plans to open his coaching center. He advised his students never to turn away from their studies despite their situations and to focus on education as much as possible.