In a significant boost to educational infrastructure in coastal Karnataka, the non-profit organization OSAAT (One School at a Time) has initiated two major projects to upgrade government schools in Dakshina Kannada district. The projects, valued at approximately Rs 2.5 crore collectively, aim to transform learning environments for hundreds of students in rural areas.
Venur School Project: Rs 1.5 Crore Infrastructure Upgrade
The organization held a groundbreaking ceremony on Sunday for its most recent initiative at Government Junior College's high school section in Venur, Belthangady. This ambitious project, estimated to cost Rs 1.5 crore, will benefit 563 students through the construction of three large classrooms, two regular classrooms, a dedicated girls' toilet block, and a special pink room.
Balakrishna Rao, a representative from OSAAT, confirmed that this marks the organization's 127th school project. He praised the school's teaching staff, headmaster, and School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMC) president for their active involvement and commitment to school development.
The construction is expected to be completed within 10 months, with funding secured from donors Vijaya and Vasantharam Somayaji based in the USA, along with an anonymous American contributor.
Sullia College Building: Rs 1 Crore Facility Inaugurated
Earlier in November, OSAAT had unveiled a new school building worth Rs 1 crore at Government Pre-University College in Sullia. This facility, identified as the organization's 115th school building, now supports 638 students and 18 teachers.
The construction timeline for the Sullia project spanned from November 20, 2024, to November 11, 2025. Funding for this initiative came from donors Sandhya and Guru Pangal in the USA, along with Nirmala Jay Pullur from Bengaluru.
Transforming Rural Education Infrastructure
These infrastructure projects are designed to create safer, modern learning spaces that support both academic excellence and holistic student development. The new facilities address critical needs in rural government schools, particularly focusing on gender-specific requirements through dedicated girls' toilets and pink rooms.
With these two latest initiatives, OSAAT has now undertaken four projects in Dakshina Kannada district, demonstrating a consistent commitment to upgrading educational infrastructure in rural Karnataka. The organization's approach emphasizes collaboration with local school authorities and communities to ensure sustainable development and improved educational outcomes.
