Akash Sampurnanand Pandey Says JEE Coaching Teachers Are ‘Leftovers’, Internet Splits Over Viral Claim

A social media post by IIT-BHU graduate Akash Sampurnanand Pandey has triggered a heated debate over the role and reputation of JEE coaching teachers. His claim that many coaching instructors are "leftovers" of campus placement season has gone viral, dividing opinion on whether teaching at coaching institutes is a fallback career or a respected profession in its own right.

What Did Akash Sampurnanand Pandey Say?

The discussion began after Pandey shared his changing perception of JEE coaching teachers from his school days to his time as an IIT graduate.

According to him, many students initially view IIT coaching faculty as exceptionally talented mentors capable of simplifying complex concepts. However, he argued that after graduating from IIT, students realise that several coaching teachers are graduates who did not secure top corporate placements and eventually turned to teaching. ‘You’re Better Off Not Going to University’: Saurabh Mukherjea Says Class 12 Passouts May Earn More Than Graduates in India.

Akash Sampurnanand Pandey Says JEE Coaching Teachers Are 'Leftovers'

Pandey further claimed that while many IIT graduates pursue MBAs, research, startups or corporate careers, some coaching teachers continue teaching the same entrance examination syllabus for years. He concluded his post by saying, "Don't mistake the gatekeeper for the owner of the castle." Jobs Applications: 7 in 10 Indian Employees Willing To Apply for New Job Skills in Real-World Setting for Future Demands.

Social Media Divided

The post quickly gained traction on X, prompting mixed reactions.

Some users agreed with Pandey, arguing that coaching faculty primarily specialise in cracking competitive exams rather than pursuing academic research or industry careers.

Remark Sparks Debate on IIT Faculty and Coaching Culture

Others strongly disagreed, saying placement outcomes do not determine teaching ability. They argued that helping students understand difficult concepts and succeed in one of India's toughest entrance examinations requires exceptional communication skills and subject expertise.

Several users also pointed out that successful researchers are not always effective teachers, while many coaching instructors have positively influenced thousands of students through their teaching.

The discussion has reignited a broader conversation on coaching culture, career choices and whether professional success should be measured solely by campus placements or the impact an individual creates through education.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 25, 2026 11:16 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).