Arjun R Kuri, Vishwa Vidya Chetana School, Belgavi, Karnataka
Vishwa Vidya Chetana School was started mainly to unite six nearby villages in Turmari, Belgavi, uniting people with shared dreams. Arjun Kuri, the school’s leader, works with one goal: to help every student succeed, make their community proud, and leave a positive impact.
“Every child can overcome challenges and achieve greatness with the right support,” Arjun says, believing in his students’ potential.
His own rural school experience drives his passion for change. “Education unlocks opportunities in remote areas and shapes brighter futures,” he adds.
About the School Leader
Arjun Kuri completed his B.Ed in 2001 with a strong desire to improve education in his village. During his studies, he was inspired by his lecturers who encouraged his idea of starting an educational institution. “Their support made me believe that I could make a real difference in my community through education,” Arjun says.
When he returned to his village, he started a Navodaya coaching centre. “I knew education was the key to shaping a better future for the children here,” he shares. In 2006, he laid the foundation for Vishwa Vidya Chetana. Under his leadership, the school has grown into a respected institution, making a lasting impact.
Motive Behind Starting the School
The challenges Arjun faced during his school days in a rural village inspired his determination to create change. “Growing up, I faced many obstacles, there were no private schools, no coaching for competitive exams like Navodaya or NTC, and no bus services to far-off educational institutions,” he says, reflecting on the hardships of his early years.
Seeing these challenges, he made a firm decision to ensure future generations would not face the same struggles. “I wanted to provide children in my village with the opportunity to access quality education and fulfill their dreams,” he shares. With the support of his family and his unwavering vision, Arjun brought the school to life, offering hope and opportunities to the children of his village.
School’s Growth and Unique Approach
This Kannada-medium school serves students from Classes 1 to 8, with 236 learners guided by 12 dedicated teachers. The campus has 12 classrooms and provides van services for transportation.
What sets Vishwa Vidya Chetana apart is its blend of Navodaya coaching with regular schooling. “We aim to prepare students not just for exams but for their future,” says the school leader.
This approach has earned recognition across the region. “Parents value our focus on both academics and competitive exams,” he adds. Students and parents appreciate this balanced focus on education and opportunities.
Success That Inspires
Since the beginning, the school has achieved significant milestones that show its dedication to quality education. Arjun shares, “Between 2003 and 2005, our Navodaya coaching program achieved remarkable results, with many students securing admission to top residential schools across the state.”
The school’s impact continues to grow as alumni often return to show gratitude and honor their roots. “Their respect and gratitude highlight the lasting impact of the education they received at Vishwa Vidya Chetana. This bond between the school and its former students brings joy and inspiration to everyone in our community,” Arjun says. This ongoing connection reflects the school’s lasting influence on its students and the community.
Challenges and Resilience
Arjun shares, “Starting a school in a rural area came with many challenges, but perseverance turned those obstacles into meaningful opportunities.” In the beginning, the school operated from a rented space, and delays in obtaining government approval added to the struggles. However, his determination led to the construction of a permanent building in 2012.
He says, “Retaining teachers has been an ongoing challenge, but the school continues to attract educators who are passionate and committed to making a difference.”
Infrastructure and Facilities
Over the years, the school’s infrastructure has seen incredible progress. Students no longer sit on the floor but learn comfortably at desks in well-furnished classrooms. The addition of a library, sports facilities, and a beautifully maintained garden has made learning more enriching.
Arjun shares, “Seeing students thrive in a better environment is truly rewarding. These changes are not just about infrastructure; they are about creating a space where children feel valued and inspired to learn.”
A Preferred Choice for Families
The school is a popular choice for parents from joint and financially struggling families because of its affordable fees, which range between ₹7,000 and ₹8,000. Arjun shares, “We keep the fees low so that more families can access quality education. Along with this, our free Navodaya coaching gives students an additional advantage, making it a meaningful choice for many parents.”
The Kannada medium of instruction not only boosts students’ academic performance but also helps parents actively guide their children’s learning. He adds, “Many families trust us to provide a strong foundation for their children’s education, even if they move them to other schools after Class 6. It’s fulfilling to know we’re part of their journey.”
Guiding Principles and Philosophy
The school strongly believes that principles are essential for achieving any goal. Arjun shares, “We constantly remind parents that their family’s progress depends on providing their children with a quality education. This is not just advice; it is the foundation of everything we do at the school.”
To inspire students further, the school regularly invites successful individuals from various fields like jobs, sports, business, and academics. He explains, “These real-life stories leave a lasting impression on our students, motivating them to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals.”
Promoting Kannada Medium Education
The school ensures students in Kannada medium from Classes 1 to 5 feel confident. The focus is to prepare them for higher studies, especially PUC, in any medium. Arjun shares, “Learning in the mother tongue builds a strong foundation for better understanding.”
Students study in Kannada initially to improve comprehension. From Class 6, they can choose their medium of instruction. Arjun adds, “This flexibility helps students stay comfortable and ready for future challenges.”
The Role of Varthana
Varthana’s financial support has played a key role in the school’s progress. In 2007, their funds helped complete additional classrooms, greatly improving the infrastructure. Arjun shares, “This support not only enhanced our facilities but also strengthened parents’ trust in us.”
The partnership with Varthana continues to drive the school’s development. Arjun adds, “With their help, we have been able to create a better learning environment for our students.”
A Vision for the Future
Vishwa Vidya Chetana plans to increase its student strength to 350 by introducing new strategies. The school aims to set up a computer lab and integrate technology. The leader says, “Bringing technology into classrooms will prepare students for a future full of opportunities.”
The school also plans to become a hub for excellence in both academics and sports. Efforts are in place to secure government approval for higher classes. He shares, “Introducing higher classes will allow students to continue their education in the community.”
To excel in sports, the school is enhancing its training programs. He adds, “Achieving state-level recognition in sports is our goal, and we’re focused on improving our training.” Night schools and tuition sessions will also be introduced for children from farming families. He concludes, “We want to ensure no child is left behind in their educational journey.”
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