For some teachers in Karnataka, learning does not stop at textbooks, blackboards and examination syllabuses. They are taking children outdoors, using music, visiting historical sites, growing vegetables and even personally supporting schools to make education more meaningful.
Their efforts are based on a simple belief: children understand concepts better when they can experience what they are learning.
Science comes alive through music
At Government Boys High School in Tiptur, Tumakuru, science teacher Naveen Kumar R U uses folk and classical music, stories, drama and laboratory activities to teach students from Classes 5 to 10.
A former policeman, Naveen returned to teaching after realising it was his calling. Coming from a family of folk singers and theatre artistes, he combined his love for music with science education and later completed a PhD on the impact of music on science learning.
He also directs plays on social issues and works to bring children who have dropped out back into school.
History lessons move outdoors
In Raichur’s Kavithal, social science teacher Hanumesh T Kattimani takes students to historical locations such as Maski, where they can see evidence of Neolithic life.
Students have explored ancient remains, learnt about how people lived and even recreated some of the tools discovered at the site.
He also takes them to farms and industrial areas, connecting textbook lessons with the world around them.
A school garden becomes a classroom
At a government residential school in Devanahalli, Bengaluru, teachers have transformed an unused patch of land into a vegetable garden.
Around 35 students participate in growing crops such as carrots, tomatoes and spinach. They learn about seeds, soil, tools and cultivation while caring for the plants.
The first harvest was even used for the school’s midday meal.
One teacher spends her salary to help children
In Belagavi, Kannada teacher Asha Potadar is supporting another government school by paying the salaries of its LKG and UKG teachers and support staff.
Her support has helped increase enrolment from 23 children in 2024 to 53 this year. She also pays educational expenses for a girl from a financially struggling family.
These teachers are showing that education can be much more than memorising lessons. By bringing learning into real life, they are helping children discover, understand and remember through experience — while reminding communities of the difference one committed teacher can make