Shivamogga school teacher wins National Teachers’ Award, to receive award from President in Delhi

Ratnakumari S., the in-charge headmistress at the Government Higher Primary School in Samatagaru village, Shivamogga, has been awarded the National Teachers’ Award for 2026. She stands out as the sole recipient from Karnataka among 48 teachers selected nationwide. With over 30 years of teaching experience, Ms. Ratnakumari is celebrated for her innovative methods to enhance teaching effectiveness.

Recognizing the collective effort, she credits her team, parents, villagers, and department officers for her recognition. The school, staffed by four teachers and a guest faculty member for 60 students, has benefited from donor-funded transportation for students from neighboring villages.

Ms. Ratnakumari, originally from Tirthahalli, has spent 25 years at the school, where her own children and colleagues' children have also studied. Her emphasis on English instruction has made the school a preferred choice over private institutions. The campus features an environment-friendly setup, including a medicinal plant park and a mathematics and science park, with a plastic-free policy.

Students engage in activities like theatre to hone their language skills, fostering interaction with parents and ensuring a supportive learning environment.

She has a track record of students securing jobs in engineering, banking, and the film industry, as well as those finding success in agriculture. Minister for School Education and Literacy, Madhu Bangarappa, congratulated Ms. Ratnakumari and confirmed her participation in the Teachers’ Day program in Delhi to receive the national award from President Droupadi Murmu.