Tirupur: Govt Panchayat Union school increases enrolment from 1 to 107

Tirupur: An elementary school run with a single student near Tirupur, has dramatically increased students intake with efforts by teachers and local leaders.

The Panchayat Union elementary school was opened at Thayampalayam village in Kandiyankovil panchayat near Pongalur in 1963. Though the school had more students from surrounding villages, the strength came down drastically in the last few years.

There was only one student in 2016-17 academic year. Since the school had to be closed, school teachers and local leaders made serious efforts to increase the students on rolls. With the support of educational officials, they increased it from a mere one to 107 within the last two years.

District collector K S Palanisamy visited the school and felicitated teachers and local leaders for their dedication to revive the school. Following an interaction with teachers, he said, “with the joint effort, 62 students were admitted in 2017-18 and 46 students in 2018-19 academic year. During the current academic year, 39 students have joined for LKG and UKG classes. Students are being taught with updated methods including writing, speech and other activities. Basic amenities are provided adequately to attract parents and students. Vehicle facilities are also arranged for transportation.”

He called upon parents to join with teachers and educational officials to protect government schools. Chief educational officer Shanthi and various officials took part in the simple function that saw the revival of Kamaraj’s spirit.