‘I have to earn back people’s trust’: Deve Gowda issues warning to grandson Prajwal in sex abuse case

In a significant milestone, the Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Higher Primary School in Newpadpu, Harekala, has introduced a bilingual Kannada-English medium this academic year, a move spearheaded by Padma Shri awardee Harekala Hajabba. The school has so far received 13 admissions for its Class 1 bilingual program.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the state government, which approved 38 schools across the district to launch bilingual mediums. Expressing his delight, Hajabba shared that he had been advocating for a bilingual school for years. "The bilingual medium will greatly benefit students in this region who otherwise rely on private schools. However, we currently face a shortage of classrooms. Construction of two additional classrooms is underway, and once completed, we expect higher admissions," he said.

The school had previously been permitted to introduce LKG and UKG classes in the last academic year. According to the school’s headmistress, Rajeshwari, while the pre-primary sections have seen good enrolment, the bilingual Class 1 faced challenges, securing only 13 students. She attributed this to the late notification of permission, which arrived a month after the academic year began, leading many children to enroll elsewhere.

Rajeshwari remains optimistic about the future. "We expect better admissions next academic year as awareness about bilingual education at this government school grows," she said, adding that the classroom shortage will soon be addressed.

Deputy Director of Public Instruction (DDPI) Venkatesha Subraya Patagara noted that bilingual schools across Dakshina Kannada have generally received a positive response, with some schools enrolling more than 100 students. The effort to offer bilingual education in government schools marks a step forward in providing affordable, quality education to underserved regions.

Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court on Friday granted bail to the prime accused actors Darshan Thoogudeepa Srinivas and Pavithra Gowda in the Renukaswmy murder case.

Justice S Vishwajith Shetty said that all the petitions have been allowed.

The other accused in the case, Nagaraju, Anu Kumar, Lakshman, Jagadeesh alias Jagga and R Pradoosh Rao have also been granted bail.

Renukaswamy was found dead on June 8, 2024. He was working in a medical shop in Chitradurga. The accused had kidnapped and allegedly murdered him in a shed at Pattanagere in R R Nagar police station limits of Bengaluru city for sending obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda.

The actor was arrested on June 11 this year. He was earlier lodged at the Parappana Agrahara Jail in Bengaluru, but when a photograph went viral showing him relaxing with some of the jail inmates, he was transferred to Ballari Central Jail.

Darshan is presently hospitalised for alleged back pain.

The Shepherds’ International Academy celebrated its Annual Day on 18/12/2024 at Town Hall with great enthusiasm and spirit. The theme, Essence of Life, focused on fostering moral values, life skills, and holistic development among students, aiming to instill in them the values of kindness, responsibility, and gratitude.

The Chief Guest, Dr. Santosh Soans, a renowned pediatrician and former President of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, was welcomed, along with other dignitaries, by the Head Boy Maaz and Head Girl Amal of the school.

The program commenced with a warm welcome by the Master of Ceremonies, Ms. Swathi Arshekar, followed by the Principal, Ms. Lubna Banu, addressing the gathering.

A special tribute was paid to the late visionary leader, Mr. Ahmed AK, and advisor, Mr. S.M. Basheer, whose guiding principles continue to inspire the school. Quoting the leader’s words, the Chief Guest, Dr. Soans, said, “We took so much from society; now it’s time to give it back to society.” He emphasized how these words formed the foundation of the school and encouraged everyone to carry forward this vision of service and responsibility.

The Chairman, Ar. Mohammed Nissar, shared his thoughts on the late leader’s enduring legacy, reaffirming the institution’s mission of holistic education that integrates academic excellence with strong ethical values.

The cultural program was a vibrant celebration of the theme Essence of Life, showcasing various values through engaging and meaningful performances.

The theme Essence of Life was designed to inspire students and the audience to reflect on the fundamental principles that give life its true meaning. It emphasized the significance of living a balanced and purposeful life, grounded in strong moral and ethical values. Key aspects of the theme included nurturing family bonds, expressing gratitude, conserving resources, and practicing mindfulness. The school’s aim was to create a foundation of values that would shape students into compassionate, responsible, and well-rounded individuals, ready to make a positive impact on the world.

A welcome note was given by Zahaa, followed by The MCs—Areen Ahmed Shareef, Sharah Syed, Mohammed Ibrahim, Khatija Aleena, Tisha, and Ahsan Hassan T—set the stage by entering with a seed of goodness, a symbolic act where a fruit was added to a tree after each performance, representing the values instilled through the acts.

The cultural program began with “We Are All Amazing” A lively action song celebrating self-worth and individuality by Montessori 1.  Also a skit, celebrating the love, unity, and strength of family bonds, titled Humara Pyaara Parivar. “TED Talk” A thought-provoking talk by a student of Mont 2 Iqra Abdulla on Being Bored is healthy. “Skit on the Right Path” A dramatic performance highlighting the significance of making ethical and moral decisions. “Kindness act” A heartfelt gratitude to the Helping ladies of school. 

The Annual Day celebration was a true reflection of The Shepherds’ International Academy’s mission to nurture well-rounded, value-driven individuals. The theme Essence of Life was seamlessly integrated into every performance, leaving a lasting impression on the audience about the importance of living a life guided by values, responsibility, and service.

The event was a resounding success, showcasing the creativity and talent of students while delivering a strong message about moral values and community service.

The Shepherds’ International Academy remains committed to fostering learners who excel academically and ethically, making a positive impact on the world.