Reported by: P Archibald Furtado
Udupi, July 7: In a heartwarming gesture of community support and educational empowerment, the students of National High School, Barkur, received free uniforms for the academic year 2025–26. This meaningful initiative was made possible through the joint efforts of Rotary Club Barkur—currently on the threshold of its silver jubilee celebrations—and the generous sponsorship of M/s Kishoo Enterprises, the franchisee of Daijiworld, Udupi.
The distribution programme was held on Monday, July 7, at the college auditorium and witnessed the enthusiastic presence of students, staff, dignitaries, and well-wishers. The event began with a soulful prayer hymn by the high school girls, invoking divine blessings.
Seetharam S compered the programme and invited the dignitaries to the stage. The secretary of Rotary Barkur extended a warm welcome to the gathering, followed by the presentation of fresh roses to the guests as a mark of respect.
Following the symbolic distribution of uniforms, chief guest Ashok Kumar Shetty, secretary of the Barkur Educational Society, in his thoughtful address, extended heartfelt thanks to Rotary Barkur and to Kishoo Enterprises for their generosity—now being extended for the third consecutive academic year. As a token of gratitude, Kishore Gonsalves, director of Kishoo Enterprises, was honoured with a shawl and memento. In his nostalgic response, he fondly remembered his student days at NJC and assured continued support to the institution and its students.
Correspondent of NJC Barkur, Gopala Naik, expressed his sincere appreciation to Rotary Barkur for the timely gesture and congratulated Kishori Sachindra Shetty on assuming office as the new Rotary president. He also acknowledged the role of Kishoo Enterprises in making the event possible.
In her presidential address, Kishori Sachindra Shetty expressed her joy in witnessing the serene academic atmosphere of the NJC campus. She reaffirmed Rotary’s commitment to educational causes and encouraged students to make the most of such opportunities.
The event was further graced by the presence of past and present office-bearers of Rotary Club Barkur, who attended in full strength, showcasing the unity and service spirit of the organisation.
Among other dignitaries present were Prof Archibald Furtado, admin coordinator, National Group of Educational Institutions; Usha Kiran Shetty, principal, NJC Barkur; and Udaya Shetty, headmaster, National Primary School, Hanehalli.
Hemavathy P S, headmistress of the high school, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all contributors and guests. She proudly shared that the outgoing batch of students had donated a sound system to their alma mater as a lasting tribute. The system was formally handed over to the secretary during the ceremony.
The event concluded on a note of fulfilment and gratitude, with refreshments served to all, symbolising the enduring bond between the institution, its alumni, and the community—all working together to foster a brighter future for the students of Barkur.