-News n Pics: Prof. P. Archibald Furtado
The Rotary Club of Barkur, along with the Old Students Association of the National Higher Primary School (NHPS) and the School Management, organized a vibrant three-day summer camp at the Rotary Bhuvan from April 1st to 3rd, 2024.
The inauguration ceremony was a delightful affair, filled with speeches that resonated with the importance of holistic development in children.
The keynote address was delivered by Mrs. Veena Shetty, a state-level resource person and Assistant Teacher at GHPS Hungarkatte. She aptly described the summer camp as a "package of 7-day activities tailor-made to fit in 3 days," emphasizing its focus on building confidence, independence, social and leadership skills, and physical fitness. She unveiled a program designed to "extract the hidden talents in the participants" through the guidance of experienced resource persons, with both indoor and outdoor activities planned.
Following a prayer hymn sung by the students, Rotarian Mr. Babu Naik, the Secretary of the Rotary Club of Barkur, extended a heartfelt welcome to all the guests and participants. The program was inaugurated by the traditional lighting of the lamp by dignitaries on stage.
A special moment came when the newly elected Rotary District Governor, Mr. BM Bhat, a proud alumnus of NHPS & NJC Barkur, was honored with a shawl, fruit basket, garland, and memento. In his message, he lauded the Rotary Club for their initiative and urged the children to make the most of this "specially crafted camp," encouraging them to have fun while learning valuable life lessons.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Kishore Gonsalves, the host and promoter of www.barkuronline.com, a website chronicling the historical town of Barkur since 2000, delivered a captivating speech. He compared his childhood experiences to the present, highlighting the abundance of opportunities available to today's youth. He implored the children to "keep away mobiles and cultivate passion for books and reading," urging them to step outside and relish their childhood. He commended the Head Master and teachers for their dedication to nurturing the students and wished the workshop a resounding success.
Mr. Ashok Kumar Shetty, the Secretary of The Barkur Educational Society, emphasized the importance of recognizing the unique talents within each child. He stated, "All may not be having the same talents, but something unique is hidden in each child." He envisioned the camp as an opportunity to "identify and nurture" these talents, reiterating the Management's unwavering support and encouragement to Head Master Mr. Udaya Shetty and his staff in their pursuit of fostering all-round development in their students.
Mr. Praveen Shetty, President of the NHPS Old Students Association, unveiled a sample craft item, signifying the creative aspects of the camp. Mr. P. Archibald Furtado, Admin Coordinator of The National Group of Educational Institutions, Barkur, was also present and conveyed his best wishes.
Rotarian Mr. Seetharama S, the President of Rotary Club of Barkur and an alumnus and former Office Superintendent of NJC Barkur, expressed his gratitude to everyone who collaborated to make this "Chinnara Srujatmaka Shibihra" (Camp for Creative Children) a reality.
Teacher Mrs. Shailaja proposed a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging all those who contributed to the camp's success. The generous donors were especially recognized for their goodwill, and the resource personnel for the program were introduced and appreciated. Several Rotary members, teachers, and parents graced the occasion, witnessing the beautiful event.
The Inaugural ceremony concluded at 11.00 am, following a captivating presentation by Retired Head Master Rotarian Mr. Sudhakar Rao. His vast knowledge and narrative skills enthralled both children and adults, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
The three-day summer camp at the National Higher Primary School promised to be a vibrant experience, brimming with learning, exploration, and the joy of childhood.
