Govt school in Virajpet celebrates 100 yrs

The Government Higher Model Primary School in Titimati, Virajpet, has carved a niche for itself and is celebrating its 100 years of fruitful existence.

Even though the strength of students is dwindling in most of the government schools, the government school in Titimati has been successful in maintaining a robust attendance with 250 students studying in the school at present.

On the lines of centenary celebrations, programmes will be held in the school. An inter-school sports meet will be held for students on February 23. A formal programme and cultural events will be organised on February 24. Felicitations will be held for 45 retired teachers of the school on the occasion. A souvenir will be released during the programme.

About the school

When Kodagu District Board set up the school in 1919, the classes were conducted in a hut-like structure. Three classrooms were built later on 3.16 acres of land donated by a philanthropist, Manjamma. Also, the Jappadakatte Mutt committee donated a one-acre land for the school playground.

As the number of students increased, Maneyapanda Ganapathy constructed a new building in 1952. Cheppudira Ponnamma contributed an auditorium in 1991. Various other philanthropists and elected representatives have provided facilities such as the main entrance, an arch and protective wall to the school. The Titimati Gram Panchayat has built a Rangamandira for the school with a zilla panchayat fund of Rs 5 lakh.

The centenary committee is headed by school alumni and former minister Suma Vasanth.

Committee working president Cheppudira Ramakrishna said that a centenary bhavan will be constructed to mark the occasion.

The school which has produced sportspersons P C Ponnappa and Cheppurdira Kariappa currently has a student strength of 250, he said and added that over 5,000 students have passed out from the school.