News : Ashok Gundmi, Pics : Subhanu Photos Studio
Barkur: National High School, Barkur, recently hosted its grand 'Prathibha Puraskara' (Merit Award) ceremony, held in honour of the birth anniversaries of two luminaries deeply connected to the institution — the late Swami Purushothamananda Ji, the school's revered spiritual guide, and P. N. Boja Rao, a distinguished alumnus and the founding Headmaster of the school.
The programme was presided over by Mr. Ashok Kumar Shetty, Secretary of the Management Committee, with prominent members of the Committee gracing the occasion as chief guests.
A Solemn Beginning
The ceremony commenced on a devotional note with a prayer song rendered by students of the High School section. Mrs. Hemavathi P. S., Headmistress of the High School, extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests on behalf of the institution. The ceremonial lamp was lit by Mr. Krishna Hebbar, Treasurer of the Management Committee, formally inaugurating the proceedings.
Mr. Archibald Furtado, Administrative Coordinator and newly inducted member of the Executive Committee of the Management, set the tone of the event with an insightful introductory address, explaining to the students the purpose and deeper significance of the Merit Award programme.
Honouring Academic Excellence
The highlight of the evening was the felicitation of students who had demonstrated outstanding academic performance in the previous academic year in the SSLC and II PUC public examinations. Deserving students were identified and honoured with cash awards, generously sponsored by donors. The school's teaching community and students were also collectively felicitated for achieving a remarkable 100% pass result — a testament to the institution's commitment to academic excellence.
A special moment of pride came with the honouring of Miss Gayathri Shettigar, who not only secured an impressive 616 marks in the SSLC public examination but also brought glory to the school and the village of Barkur by ranking 10th at the state level. She was presented with a memento and a citation on behalf of the Management and the school, to resounding applause from those gathered.
Words of Wisdom and Inspiration
The dignitaries present on the dais addressed the student gathering with heartfelt and motivating speeches, emphasising the importance of education, the virtue of hard work, and the qualities essential to succeeding in life. Their words left a lasting impression on the young minds present.
Behind the Scenes
The smooth conduct of the programme was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the school's staff. Mr. Ashok Gundmi, High School teacher, read out the names of the cash award recipients, while Mr. Novel D'Silva, Hindi teacher, played a key role in preparing the list of awardees. Mr. A. H. Gowda, Physical Education teacher, ensured discipline and orderly conduct throughout the event.
The preparations, arrangements, and stage setup were ably managed by Mrs. Kamala (Craft teacher), Mrs. Keerthika (Science teacher), guest teacher Ms. Ashwitha, and Mrs. Reshma, whose collective efforts lent the event its polished and festive character.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Prabhakar G. P., Sanskrit teacher of the High School section. The event was elegantly compered by Kannada teacher Mr. Maruthi K. P., whose crisp and effective anchoring added considerable charm to the proceedings.
A Cherished Chapter in Eight Decades of Excellence
The 'Prathibha Puraskara 2025-26' stands as yet another shining milestone in the school's storied eighty-year journey — a programme that not only recognised and rewarded student talent but also inspired the next generation to dream bigger and strive harder. It will long be remembered as a memorable and cherished event in the golden annals of National High School, Barkur.