MANGALURU, 16 FEB

Kukrabettu Government Primary School at Marodi village in Belthangady taluk in Dakshina Kannada district which was once on the verge of closure due to dwindling student numbers has not only managed to thrive but also witnessed a surge in enrolment. The turn of events culminated in the construction of a new school building.

In 2019, the school faced an existential crisis with a mere 16 students enrolled. However, under the diligent efforts of SDMC Chairman Prakash Anchan and the collective dedication of the local community, the school's fortunes have been transformed with around 200 students now in the rolls.

Anchan, who also chairs Sri Durga Charitable Trust and has a proven track record of reviving schools in Bantwala taluk, rallied former students and villagers to devise a plan to rescue the school from closure. The first step was the formation of a committee, followed by a concerted appeal to parents to transfer their children from private schools to government-run institutions.

The response from the community was positive, with around 40 parents heeding the call to enrol their children in the school. Students began streaming in not only from Marodi but also from neighbouring villages, including Peradi, Kashipatna, Kokradi, Savya, Kutlur, Naravi and Shirtadi.

To enhance its appeal, Sri Durga Charitable Trust, which adopted the school, introduced LKG and UKG classes, along with English medium instruction. Emphasis was placed on quality education, with additional honorary teachers appointed to bolster the teaching staff. Moreover, the trust initiated extracurricular activities such as Yoga, Karate, Dance and Yakshagana, underscoring its commitment to holistic development. Additionally, school buses were arranged to facilitate transportation for students residing in remote areas.

Generous contributions from donors played a pivotal role in augmenting the school's facilities. Notably, the IEEE Advancing Technology for Humanity provided a Smart Class facility, while MLA Harish Poonja and MP Nalin Kumar Kateel allocated funds for the construction of an impressive eight-room building spanning 5,000 square feet. Furthermore, a well-equipped toilet was constructed under the MRPL CSR fund, enhancing the school's infrastructure. —Salar News