Chennai: Thiru Vi Ka Higher Secondary School (Boys) at Shenoy Nagar is the oldest school in the neighbourhood. This is aided by the government.
Speaking to News Today, Thiru Vi Ka School, Head Master John, said, “The school was started in the year 1955 by Dr Mu Varadarajan, A M Paramasiva and Dr B M Sundaravadanam to educate the poor children in the surroundings. The school starts at 8.45 am and finishes at 4.30 pm.”
“We celebrate annual day, sports day and other important days. Every year, 50 students get Rs 2,000 as educational fund from VGN Foundation on former Chief Minister K Kamarajar’s birthday as ‘Kalvi valarchi naal’. We also celebrate Dr APJ Abdul Kalam birthday as Ilanjar Ezhuchi Naal. The school alumni’s celebrate Independence Day (on 15 August) along with students and give scholarship to weaker section.”
In November, we organise science exhibition which will be attended by children and elders in the surroundings. All teachers and students will take part in Samathuva Pongal Vizha. This brings unity among the teachers and students, he added.
“The institution has over 700 students, 35 teachers and 15 staffs. Every year teachers contribute Rs, 1,00,000 for Bhogi celebration. We are having extra-curricular activities like NCC and Scouts. There were 100 students in NCC, 50 students in NSS and 25 students in NGC (Natural Greens Crops). We select 100 students and give free uniform. Our school gives Rs 2,000 for 20 students who excel in sports to buy their kits. A few of our students took part in inter-district basketball and hockey tournaments,” he said.
He added, “Instead of cricket, we give preference to other games like football, hockey, basketball and athletics. These games helps poor students to get higher studies and government jobs. We also organise free summer camp classes for boys and girls in karate, football, hockey, basketball. Last summer, more than 600 children from the neighbourhood participated and benefited. The school gives importance for athletes. Recently, one of our student got a gold medal in 5,000 meters running race. We organised Swachh Bharath awareness by conducting rallies and drama. Hand washing awareness for students are also conducted.”
Thiru Vi Ka School is located at no 38/39, First Main Road, Shenoy Nagar. For more details, contact 2626 2336.