In the Mullur village where every sunset paints the sky in hues of warmth, there exists a place of dreams and transformation – Vinayaka Vidya Shala. This is not just a school; it’s a sanctuary where learning extends beyond textbooks, and the heartbeat of the community pulses in unison. Today, I share a chapter of my life spent with the spirited children of Vinayaka Vidya Shala, a journey that has not only enriched my soul but has become a testament to the incredible potential that lies within every child and community.
I started visiting the school when I was 7 years old. At first it was to play and learn. As I grew older I would come every year during my summer holidays from the US to volunteer. At 18 I knew I wanted to teach for a longer period and Nancy Glass, a patron of the school mentored and inspired me to do so.
Every visit to Vinayaka Vidya Shala was a new adventure. The children, with their infectious enthusiasm, welcomed me with open hearts. I became ‘Miss’ to them, a title adorned with love and respect. Learning to speak better Kannada, became a delightful challenge. I struck a deal with the kids – they teach me Kannada, and in return, I’d help them improve their English. It was a bond forged through a linguistic exchange, a testament to the power of mutual learning.
Amidst this cultural exchange, I was gifted not just with newfound language skills but also with fresh white flowers every day, each bloom a symbol of the children’s appreciation. The fragrance of those flowers carried a deeper meaning – a deep connection that I still hold dear today.
A Shared Vision:
In the spirit of progress and embracing change, my wish is to channel the collective energy of Vinayaka Vidya Shala towards broader horizons. Our journey should extend beyond the classroom, utilizing current technologies to explore new frontiers. It’s not just about what we can gain from the world; it’s about what we can bring back to our community.
Looking forward, the vision for Vinayaka Vidya Shala includes embracing technology to connect students with educators from diverse backgrounds. Weekly video conferences expose students to leaders from diverse industries, preparing them for a future where they can make meaningful contributions to their communities. My hope for school is that, as it completes its 30th anniversary, it continues to evolve. I draw from the wisdom of these institutions, encouraging students not to forget their roots but to actively contribute vibrancy and fluency.
We hold a vision where the knowledge and skills acquired in various sectors are brought back to our roots. Instead of migrating to urban centers in pursuit of opportunities, let’s focus on empowering our own village. How can we bring prosperity to this nurturing land, creating an environment that inspires the children to dream bigger and learn more? This is not just a wish; it’s a commitment we make together.
As we stand on the precipice of the next 30 years for Vinayaka Vidya Shala, let’s dream together. Imagine a school that not only educates but transforms; a community that not only learns but thrives. Our commitment is to provide everything the children need to flourish. Let’s envision a future where Vinayaka Vidya Shala is not just impactful but is a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
