The process of teaching is not confined to four walls of a classroom but goes much beyond that.
Retired headmistress Savarapu Annamma believes in the same theory. Even after serving as a teacher and headmistress in various municipal schools for over four decades, her undying passion to shape the lives of students continues unhindered.
Starting her teaching profession as a Telugu pundit at MCH School in 1973 and later worked as social studies and English teacher and headmistress in Upper Primary and High Schools, Ms. Annamma’s career graph took an upward curve as soon as she began working tirelessly, paying attention to each student.
“The focus was more on moulding the character of children, instilling discipline among them and making them accountable and responsible,” recalls the 70-year-old retired teacher, who donates a sizeable amount of not less than ₹2 lakh towards education of the poor and meritorious students.
Most of beneficiaries are girls as the retired teacher has four sons but no daughter.
Ms. Annamma’s unconditional love for her students and dedication towards her profession made her win several awards and accolades from all quarters.
Besides district and State awards, the list also includes Mother Teresa Priyadarshini Award, Indo-Thai Sadbhavana Award, Asia-Pacific International Gold Star Award, Indo-Nepal Integration Gold Star Award.
Recently, she has been selected for Rashtriya Pratibha Award instituted by Indo Socio Development Association.
“However, the real recognition for a teacher is when she finds a place in her student’s heart,” says Ms. Annamma on the eve of Teachers’ Day.
Referring to the conversion of Telugu medium into English medium in municipal schools, Ms. Annamma says: “While Hindi continues to be the medium of instruction in most parts of North India and Tamil in Tamil Nadu, I wonder why Telugu is not getting its due in Andhra Pradesh.”
Packing lunch-boxes for those who could not afford a square meal a day was intrinsic part of Annamma’s career. From donating books to stationery and school uniforms, even now, more than 80% of her pension goes to charity.
“When my students settle well, what more do I want? The happiest part is that most of them keep visiting my home to spend time with me,” says the retired teacher.
About the technological advancements, Ms Annamma feels it can never change the teaching methodology.
“There is no doubt that the age-old guru-sishya tradition continues to have a telling effect on students’ output and it can never be replaced by virtual lessons,” she reasons.