Kilagada Government School Commemorates 120 Years with Grand Centenary Festivities
A profound sense of nostalgia enveloped Kilagada village in the Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) district on Thursday as former students, serving and retired employees from diverse sectors, and retired educators converged to inaugurate the two-day centenary celebrations of the Government School in Munchingiputtu mandal. The event, marking an impressive 120-year legacy, drew alumni and former teachers from across Andhra Pradesh, many of whom were visibly emotional upon returning to their alma mater.
Emotional Reunion and Historical Pride
Former students expressed immense pride that a government school in a tribal hamlet could celebrate such a milestone in such a grand manner. They reminisced about the school's humble beginnings, established by the British in 1905 as a primary school with just one teacher and a handful of students. Over the decades, it has been upgraded into a government high school offering education from Classes I to X, symbolizing resilience and growth in rural education.
Inaugural Events and Honours
On the first day of the celebrations, the Sri Ambidi Appanna Vaijnanika Kala Vedika, constructed by the Atmatrupti Charitable Trust, was inaugurated on the school premises. A significant highlight was the release of the book titled "Centenary Celebrations of Kilagada School and History of Kilagada Village" by former and retired teacher Sasibhushana Rao. Additionally, 85-year-old Vanthinibha Kondaiah, a lifelong resident of Kilagada who studied at the school, served as a teacher there, and retired from the same institution, was felicitated for his enduring contributions.
Legacy of Notable Alumni
Over the past ten decades, the school has produced a remarkable array of alumni who have excelled in various fields. This includes:
- Teachers and educators
- Doctors and healthcare professionals
- Engineers and technical experts
- Banking and financial sector leaders
- Police and forest officials
- Corporate executives and business leaders
- Political figures and community influencers
This diverse output underscores the school's pivotal role in fostering talent and driving socio-economic development in the region.
Conclusion of Celebrations
The centenary celebrations are set to conclude on Friday, as announced by the organizers. This event not only honors the school's rich history but also reinforces the importance of government education in tribal areas, inspiring future generations to pursue academic excellence.
