Mandya: In an inspiring move to strengthen public education, KR Pet MLA HT Manju voluntarily shut down his private school to revive the struggling govt higher primary school in his village of Haralaly — the very institution where he once studied.The JD(S) MLA closed his private school in Neethimangala and transferred its students to the Haralaly govt higher primary school, which had remained closed for nearly two years due to poor enrolment. Concerned that the school might be shut down permanently, the MLA decided to intervene soon after he was elected in May 2023. During the 2025–26 academic year, he ensured that the govt school reopened and became functional. Around 40 students have enrolled in the revived institution to which the govt has appointed experienced teachers. KR pete block education officer YK Thimmegowda said the MLA’s initiative gave the school a new lease of life. He added that steps were being taken to establish “Makkala Mane” (children’s homes) and pre-primary sections, with the support of villagers and alumni, to strengthen enrolment in govt schools. Speaking to TOI, Manju said, “Haralaly govt higher primary school now offers facilities and academic standards comparable to private schools.” “Many alumni of the school went on to occupy prestigious positions. English will also be given equal importance For the betterment of students,” he said. Many parents are sending their children to far-off places for Pre KG; hence, at the earliest, we will also start Makkala Mane, he noted. The MLA urged parents to visit the school, interact with teachers and assess the quality of education before deciding where to enrol their children.
