Mysuru: Here is an example for how government run schools can help the poor in the hour of crisis. The century old New Type Model School (NTMS) in the city, which was once facing the threat of closure due to lack of student strength, and a demand from an ashram to hand over the school to build a memorial, has witnessed a surge in demand this year.
Most of the new admissions here are from people of disadvantaged sections of society who migrated to Mysuru from distant places like Tumakuru, Sakaleshapur, Nanjangud, Hassan among others in search of jobs.
According to available data, in the academic year 2018-19, the school’s strength was 28. It touched 50 in 2019-20. By the end of the academic year, seven students who were promoted to class VIII moved out as the school has classes only till VII.
For 2020-21, 31 students have joined the school. Among them, 11 have already completed the admission process. While 20 students who have enrolled, are yet to get transfer certificate from their previous schools. With this, the school’s strength has touched 74.
“When the offline classes start, I am confident that this number will cross 100 as many students have still not been admitted to any school. Our request to all: please adopt our school and help children from poor families pursue quality education,” said headmaster Srinivas RK.
According to authorities, the school has just three teachers to hold classes for students between Class I and VII. “Compared to many schools, it is located in a good place and has all facilities. If more facilities are provided, it can be converted into a model school. Any NGO or donors can play a big role in further improving the school and ensure it helps children from poor families to pursue good education for free,” said education department officials.