Leapfrog Engineering donates two school buses worth Rs 48 lakh to Innanje Institution

Udupi: In a significant gesture of corporate social responsibility, Leapfrog Engineering Services Limited, Bengaluru, has donated two brand-new school buses valued at Rs 48 lakh to Innanje Institution under the SODE group of educational institutions. The donation was formalised on September 8 at a special ceremony.

The institution, run by Shri Vishnumoorthy Hayavadana Swamy Education Society under Shri Sode Vadiraja Math, Udupi, has been committed to providing education to underprivileged students in Innanje, a rural village in Kaup taluk, since 1943, even before India’s Independence.

Legacy of the institution

Initially functioning as a boarding school, the institution attracted students from across the undivided Dakshina Kannada district as well as neighbouring regions of Karnataka and Kerala. Today, the campus has grown into a full-fledged group of schools, ranging from nursery to pre-university level, educating nearly 700 students, most from lower and middle-income backgrounds.

Over the years, the schools have built a strong reputation for academic excellence and holistic education. To help rural students commute from distant areas, the management has maintained a fleet of eight school buses, provided at nominal charges. However, the increasing demand for transportation facilities prompted an appeal for additional support.

CSR support from Leapfrog Engineering

Dr Radhakrishna S Aithal, CEO of SODE Group of Educational Institutions, approached his former student, Prabhav N Rao, managing director of Leapfrog Engineering Services Limited, for assistance. Responding positively, the company decided to extend support under its CSR initiative, recognising the institution’s role in empowering rural youth through quality education.

On behalf of Leapfrog Engineering, Priya Shaila P Rao, wife of Prabhav N Rao, formally handed over the keys of the buses to the school management. The keys were received by P Srinivasa Thantry, correspondent, and Rathnakumar, secretary of the society.

Leaders express appreciation

Shri Vishwavallabha Theertha Swamiji of Shri Sode Vadiraja Math expressed his appreciation to Leapfrog Engineering and its leadership for their generosity and commitment to supporting rural education. He lauded the contribution as a step towards ensuring that every student enjoys access to basic facilities and opportunities.

The handover ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including:

• Dr Radhakrishna S Aithal, CEO, SODE Group of Institutions

Conclusion

The CSR contribution of Leapfrog Engineering Services Limited is expected to significantly ease the transportation challenges faced by students from rural areas, reinforcing the institution’s mission of providing accessible and affordable education. The initiative has been widely hailed as an inspiring example of corporate-community partnership in Udupi district.