Karnataka: Teachers’ selfless effort transforms Kondlur school campus into a green asset
The school has eight acres of land on which the staff have cultivated a plantation to earn income to fund school activities
The Government High School at Kondlur, named after the late socialist leader Shantaveri Gopala Gowda, has become more than just an academic institution. This eight-acre campus has transformed into a thriving green asset, thanks to the selfless efforts of its dedicated teachers. Over the past eleven years, the school's plantation has flourished, generating income through crops such as areca, cashew, coconut, and various fruit-bearing plants.
The school's campus now boasts an acre of areca, three acres of cashew, around 40 coconut trees, and a well-maintained garden. The earnings from this plantation are credited to the School Development and Management Committee (SDMC) account, with last three years' contributions ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹2 lakh. The remarkable transformation is largely credited to the acting headmaster, Sampath H.V., who has been working at the school since 2015.
Sampath, who spends early mornings and late evenings working on the plantation, often uses his own money for maintenance and labor costs. Uday Kumar, president of the SDMC, praised Sampath's dedication, stating that the school's plantation exists because of his commitment, and he has personally contributed a significant amount to its growth.
The latest areca harvest is currently stored at the SDMC president's house, awaiting a favorable market price. Sampath hopes that the income generated will help improve the school's infrastructure, including a science laboratory, computers, and quality mid-day meals for students. Teachers like Sowmya G, who tends to the garden daily, and Manjula B. Gowdru, have also played a significant role.
Students actively participate in the plantation activities during their free time, and Sampath has been visiting students' homes to monitor their studies and interact with parents, contributing to the school's impressive academic record. The school, with 93 students, has consistently achieved 100% pass rates in SSLC examinations, and this year, attained the highest average percentage of 91.4.
Sampath's efforts have earned him appreciation from the local community and the School Education Department.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
