Pernaje School in Mangaluru Transforms into Adi Swaroopa Shikshana Sadhana Kendra
In a significant educational revival, the Pernaje Sri Seetharaghava School in Mangaluru, which was on the verge of shutting down due to steadily declining student numbers, is set to be reborn in the upcoming academic year. The institution will now operate as an alternative learning centre named the Adi Swaroopa Shikshana Sadhana Kendra, marking a fresh chapter in its long history.
From Traditional to Experiential Learning
The newly envisioned centre will depart from conventional rote-based teaching methods, embracing an experiential learning approach instead. It will provide education in both Kannada and English mediums, catering to diverse linguistic preferences. The initiative is spearheaded by Gopadkar from the Mangaluru-based Swaroopa Adhyayana Kendra, who aims to create a dynamic educational environment.
According to Gopadkar, the core philosophy behind this transformation is the belief that every child has unique talents and abilities. Under the proposed model, students will dedicate approximately one month to textbook-based learning, with the remaining ten months focused on hands-on, experiential activities. These activities will be conducted both on the expansive 12-acre campus and at various external locations, fostering practical skills and real-world understanding.
A Rich History and Recent Challenges
Established in 1966 by Pernaje Seetharama Bhat, the institution has a storied past. Originally a primary school, it gradually expanded to include a high school and later a pre-university college. Strategically located on the border of Puttur and Sullia taluks, it once served students from neighboring areas such as Jallur, Kanakamajalu, Mandekolu, and Delampady.
However, over the years, the school faced mounting challenges. A shift in parental preference towards English-medium education led to a gradual decline in admissions. This downturn forced the closure of the pre-university college section in 2024, followed by the shutdown of the high school in 2025, pushing the institution to the brink of permanent closure.
Ambitious Plans and Community Support
The revival plan includes ambitious goals for the near future. In the upcoming academic year, the centre aims to admit 100 students each in the Kannada and English mediums. Currently, renovation work is actively underway on the campus to prepare for this new beginning.
Looking ahead, the institution has a long-term vision to enrich its offerings. Within the next three years, plans are in place to establish a museum, a film theatre, and specialized units for activities like beekeeping and puppetry. These additions are designed to create a holistic and engaging learning environment.
The project has garnered substantial community support. The Bharat Agriculture Development Foundation in Vittal has contributed Rs 25 lakh towards the renovation efforts. Furthermore, in a move to promote accessibility, Kannada-medium education will be provided free of cost. Efforts are also being made to extend this benefit to English-medium students, ensuring that quality education remains within reach for all.
This revival not only saves a historic institution but also introduces an innovative educational model to the region, potentially setting a precedent for other schools facing similar challenges.
