Padma Shri Harekala Hajabba's Educational Vision Advances with New College Building
The long-cherished dream of Padma Shri awardee Harekala Hajabba to establish a dedicated Pre-University college in his hometown took a significant leap forward on Sunday. The foundation stone for a two-floor Government Pre-University College building, to be named after Hajabba, was ceremoniously laid at Harekala Newpadpu in Mangaluru.
Political Leadership and Corporate Support Drive Initiative
Karnataka Assembly Speaker and Mangaluru constituency MLA UT Khader performed the foundation stone laying ceremony, marking a pivotal moment in the educational development of the region. The first phase of construction has received substantial backing through corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) has committed a generous Rs 45 lakh grant to support the initial construction works. This CSR funding will specifically cover the development of two classrooms, which are planned to be operational by the beginning of the next academic year.
Infrastructure Details and Land Allocation
The Harekala Gram Panchayat had previously allocated 1.3 acres of land at Newpadpu specifically for the college building, with an additional 1.6 acres reserved for a playground. While this land was earmarked approximately two years ago, construction activities had not commenced until now due to funding constraints.
Currently, Pre-University classes are being conducted within the high school section facilities. The institution offers commerce stream education with modest enrollment numbers: 11 students in first PU and 13 students in second PU.
Official Statements and Future Vision
MLA UT Khader emphasized the importance of sustained follow-through on development projects during his address. "After implementing any plan, follow-up is crucial for success," Khader stated. "The first batch of PU students who enrolled with trust when the college began operations deserves commendation. This year, a Rs 5 crore grant has been allocated to Derlakatte school, and similar funding will be directed to Newpadpu college next year."
Padma Shri Harekala Hajabba, affectionately known as 'Akshara Santa' (Letter Saint) for his literacy advocacy, shared his personal commitment to the project. "After receiving the Padma Shri award, I utilized the funds received, including approximately Rs 2 lakh that various organizations provided during felicitation events, to level the land," Hajabba explained. "Now, with the CSR grant from MRPL, we can quickly construct two classrooms. This educational institution must continue to grow and expand its facilities."
Construction Timeline and Community Impact
With MRPL's financial assistance, the initial construction phase is expected to be completed within three months. Once operational, the enhanced facility is anticipated to serve students from surrounding areas including Pavoor, Pajeer, and parts of Konaje, significantly improving educational access in the region.
Broader Educational Development Plans
The foundation stone ceremony attracted religious and community leaders, college development committee members, local representatives, principals, and lecturers. Speakers consistently highlighted the critical need to strengthen government educational institutions and improve facilities to attract more students.
HH Rajeshwari, Deputy Director of the Department of Pre-University Education (DPUE), indicated that additional courses would be introduced as infrastructure improves and student enrollment grows. This expansion aligns with broader efforts to enhance educational offerings in government institutions.
Hajabba's persistent advocacy for this project involved approaching multiple government departments, corporate entities, and individual supporters over an extended period. His efforts to secure larger grants for the complete project continue alongside the current construction initiative.
