The Beginning
It was in 1999, in the quiet village of Nakkaladdini, Madanapalle that Sri M stumbled upon Lambadi children tending to their livestock and envisaged a different course for them. He decided to establish a school, a first of its kind, in a neighbourhood where education was a foreign concept. He held talks with the community heads and convinced them to send their young ones to school.
The Satsang Vidyalaya (TSV) began its journey in a single thatched hut, a far cry from the modern facility it has become today. Over the years, TSV has witnessed remarkable growth and transformation. A library, a computer lab, and a science lab have been added to enhance the learning experience. The infrastructure has been expanded to accommodate the growing number of students, ensuring a comfortable and conducive environment for education.
Prioritizing Need & Equity
At The Satsang Vidyalaya, we prioritize admitting kids who are at least 6 years old by January each year, following the Government’s new National Education Policy (NEP). A committee, including a management representative, an alumnus, a current student, and a teacher, checks each applicant’s credentials and visits their home to confirm their genuine need.
The School prioritizes
Orphans: Children who have lost one or both parents are given priority, ensuring they have a stable and supportive environment.
Single-parent children: Students from single-parent households are recognized as facing unique challenges and are offered priority admission.
Children with parents suffering from severe illnesses: The school understands the financial and emotional burdens faced by families with ill parents and prioritizes their children’s education.
Students from underprivileged backgrounds: Children from tribal, scheduled caste, or economically backward families who cannot afford education are given special consideration to ensure equal opportunities.
Helping Students Overcome Barriers to Education
The Satsang Vidyalaya has been instrumental in helping students overcome the challenges they faced before joining the school. Many of these students struggled with basic literacy skills, unable to read, write, or express themselves effectively. Their families, often headed by daily wage workers, auto drivers, or maid servants, faced financial constraints that made it difficult to afford educational expenses. Additionally, some schools maintained discriminatory practices that excluded students from marginalized communities.
The Schools Dedicated Staff & Faculty
The school’s dedicated staff and faculty have played a crucial role in shaping the lives of its students. They have provided personalized attention, guidance, and support, helping children overcome challenges and develop a lifelong love for learning, perfectly in line with its founder’s idea of education. The Satsang Vidyalaya helps students develop effective study habits by creating a positive learning environment. This includes setting up dedicated study spaces, breaking tasks into manageable chunks, and relating the curriculum to students’ interests. Teachers use educational apps, online resources, and interactive learning platforms. Familiarizing them with technology would keep them in good stead in the age of AI-led technology.
Nutritious Meals Provided to Students Every Day
One of the cornerstones of The Satsang Vidyalaya’s approach is the provision of mid-day meals. This ensures that students have a nutritious meal every day, improving their overall health and academic application. Further, the school’s commitment towards maintaining a one-to-one relationship with the students and taking education beyond the textbook has produced well-rounded students capable of melding into any role and far more amenable to change than most graduates, urban or otherwise.
Shaping Lives, Transforming Communities
The Satsang Vidyalaya has not only transformed the lives of its students but has also had a profound impact on their communities. Many former students have gone on to pursue successful careers, become responsible citizens, and contribute to the betterment of society. Some have joined the school’s faculty after successful stints elsewhere, reciprocating the mentorship they received.
The 25 Year Legacy Lives On
The staff and patrons of The Satsang Vidyalaya have done the school proud and are the driving force behind the shifting patterns in social and professional life in and around Madanapalle. While the school’s journey began with the visionary initiative of Sri M, it is now up to us to carry on its 25-year legacy.
As we continue to expand our reach and provide quality education to more students and communities, we invite you to join us in this important mission.
Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of underprivileged children. Consider making a donation or getting involved to help us continue this vital work.
