Rama Rao Prathi, Navodaya High School, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
Navodaya School started with a dream to provide quality education, but in Sattenapalli, Vijayawada, Rama Rao Prathi struggled with financial challenges that put this vision at risk.
“There were times we doubted if we could move forward. Without financial support, even the strongest efforts feel uncertain,” he shares. Running a school is not just about dedication; financial stability is crucial for progress.
Realizing the need for funds was one thing, but finding the right financial partner was just as important. “It was not just about getting a loan. We needed someone who believed in our vision and could help us grow,” Rama explains.
Everything changed when he met another school director who shared how Varthana had transformed their institution. “Their story gave us hope. If they could overcome challenges with the right support, we could too,” he recalls. That conversation opened the door to new possibilities for Navodaya’s future.
Dreams with Obstacles
The journey to excellence was challenging for Navodaya High School. He was also faced with a major problem: inadequate facilities that could not support the growing number of students.
“Our classes were small, there was no library to promote learning beyond the textbooks, and many children could not participate without a school bus,” says Rama Rao. Parents, while supportive, began to lose confidence as they witnessed the school struggling with these challenges.
“Our objective was clear, yet the circumstances made progress difficult,” states Rama. “Enrollment rates decreased, and the school’s expansion seemed to come to a halt,” he adds. Despite these difficulties, the school administration refused to give up. “We knew we had to persevere and find a way forward, no matter how difficult it became,” says Rama, determined to create lasting change for the school and its future.
Also Read: Growing from 185 to 1,000 Enrollments: The Inspiring Story of a School Leader in Lucknow
A Ray of Hope: Discovering Varthana
A turning point came when the director of H.M. Peta School shared their experience with Varthana. “They told us how Varthana recognized their school’s potential and provided the financial support they needed,” says Rama Rao. Inspired by this, Navodaya’s management decided to reach out through Varthana’s website.
After a thorough assessment, their loan was approved for ₹50 lakhs in the 2023–24 academic year. “We knew exactly where the funds were needed. New buses were purchased, making it easier for students to attend school. Classrooms were upgraded, and a modern library was built to create a better learning space,” he shares.
Parents were amazed by the transformation. Many approached the principal and asked, “How did you bring about such a big change?” The answer was simple – Varthana’s support. This partnership not only solved challenges but also strengthened the trust of the entire school community.
Shaping Tomorrow
Navodaya has only begun its journey. The vision is much larger. “Our dream is to get 1,000 students enrolled, making sure no one is left behind in quality education. With another two buses in prospect, we hope that no student will be left behind,” tells the Headmaster.
The school is conducting extra classes for class 10 students to ensure this vision is realized. “We wish to see our students gain everything and succeed in life. Getting them ready for competitive exams such as the UPSC is a part of this,” he informed. “Navodaya is not just a school; it is more of a promise. Our task is reflected in the fact that we create uplifted minds and changed hearts for students,” he pertained deeply and sincerely.
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