Madikeri: At a time when many government schools are battling neglect and poor infrastructure, the Suntikoppa Government Primary School in Kodagu has found hope in the hands of its own former students. An alumni-led initiative is breathing new life into the 108-year-old institution, raising over ₹10 lakh to renovate its aging infrastructure.

The school, which began offering high school education 44 years ago, has educated thousands over generations. Yet, it had struggled for years with lack of funds—even missing the opportunity to celebrate its centenary. That changed recently when a group of passionate alumni reconnected and resolved to restore the institution’s dignity.

A Guru Vandana reunion event brought together former staff and alumni, marking the start of the school’s revival. Since then, classrooms are being upgraded, and alumni are preparing plans to boost student enrollment.

Leading the effort are dedicated former students including KH Sharif, Harish, Anil Kumar, C Mahendra, Razak, Abdul Aziz, Arun Kumar, Dhanu Kaverappa, Vincent, Shashikumar, and Kamalahasan, supported by generous donors from Suntikoppa and surrounding areas. Their collective mission: elevate the government school to match private institutions in quality and infrastructure.

“This school made us who we are,” shared RH Sharif, Vice President of the alumni association. “Some of our batchmates are now High Court judges, and we are all committed to giving back without disrupting the current students’ learning.”

Headmistress Geetha added, “We are deeply grateful. This effort shows the power of gratitude and unity.”