Sullia: Young children are natural animal lovers who embrace pets without any fear without digging deep into their behavioural traits. Aware of children’s instinct, the government school in Elimale has replicated an animal kingdom in its precinct. Amazing isn’t it?
Children keen to explore the animal kingdom enter through the school gates every morning to have a close look at the “animals” of their liking in the school premises. Models of 25 feet tall Giraffe sticking its neck out is the most sought out “creature” with fierce tiger and gushing elephant placed at a distance on well-laid grass. Models of singing cuckoos, sparrows and peacock near small water ponds make up the rest of the surrounding environment.
Combined efforts by school teachers, School Development and Management committee (SDMC) members and general public has helped to recreate the animal kingdom, which is fenced all round. Parents, guardians and people in surrounding areas have appreciated the efforts put in by the government school to make it environmental friendly and for spreading awareness on wild life conservation.
The school campus spread over 6 acres has coconut trees, fruit bearing plants, cashew trees and dedicated area for growing vegetables. Plans are afoot to develop a water fountain to enhance the beauty around. Donors contribute towards the school development project by means of which even a cultural centre has come up.
Headmaster N K Dayanand who is spearheading the development, recently received the best teacher award at district level. The school with basic infrastructure and modern amenities has set a new precedent with its unique initiative. Government schools facing closure due to low student strength arising out of stiff competition from institutions in private sector can take a leaf out of this government school in Elimale to revive their respective schools with new and innovative concepts.
Shailesh Ambekallu, Gram Panchayath member at Devachalla is happy with the school development replicating a zoo and is keen on taking the school beautification project to the next level.
