Empowering Education at Government Higher Primary School, Ramasamudra
How Yoga Gives Back Is Changing Lives in Rural India Through Project Shaale
At Government Higher Primary School in Ramasamudra, meaningful change is taking root—thanks to the continued support of Yoga Gives Back and its local partner, Deenabandhu Trust. Through targeted investments in teachers, infrastructure, and holistic learning, this rural government school is becoming a thriving space where children can learn, grow, and dream bigger futures.
Strengthening the School Through Teacher Support
With funding from Yoga Gives Back, Deenabandhu appointed two additional teachers, increasing the total teaching staff to five. This has made a measurable difference for the school’s 59 students, ensuring better classroom engagement and individual attention across grades 1 through 7.
The school now serves a diverse student population—44 boys and 15 girls—a significant shift made possible after successfully converting the school from boys-only to co-educational, an important step toward educational equity.
Building Infrastructure That Encourages Enrollment
Since Deenabandhu adopted the school, several foundational improvements have been implemented. These include the construction of toilets and administrative support to improve access and safety—key factors that have directly contributed to increased student enrollment over time.
These changes may seem simple, but in rural communities, they play a powerful role in keeping children—especially girls—in school.
Learning Through Play: Nali-Kali Methodology
In lower primary classes, the school follows the Nali-Kali methodology, a government-supported “Play and Learn” approach. Children learn through activities, songs, games, and movement, making education joyful and engaging while building strong foundational skills.
Advancing Functional Literacy and Numeracy (FLN)
Aligned with the Education Department’s priorities, the school placed special emphasis this year on Functional Literacy and Numeracy (FLN). Through hands-on activities and focused instruction, students demonstrated significant improvement in reading, writing, and math skills.
One highlight was a Math Fair, where students participated in a mock marketplace—buying and selling items while practicing arithmetic, estimation, and money-handling skills. Learning came alive as children applied classroom concepts to real-world situations.
Encouraging a Love for Reading
To strengthen reading habits, the school introduced regular library sessions. These sessions have sparked curiosity and enthusiasm, helping children build confidence and fluency while nurturing a lifelong love of books.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Education extends far beyond four walls. This year, Deenabandhu organized a one-day educational trip to nearby historical and cultural sites, including Kanakagiri, Triambakeshwara, and Hulugana Murudi. For many students, it was their first exposure to learning through travel—an experience filled with discovery, excitement, and inspiration.
Supporting Girls’ Education Through SHE Scholarships
Students from Government Higher Primary School, Ramasamudra also benefit from Yoga Gives Back’s SHE (Scholarship for Higher Education) Program. Unlike Deenabandhu residential students who receive scholarships after 10th grade, these students become eligible after completing 7th standard, supporting them throughout high school and into college.
For the 2024–25 academic year:
- 31 high school students received SHE Scholarships
- 5 students advanced to college
- A total of 40 students (including 35 high schoolers) will receive continued scholarship support
A Model for Sustainable Change
The progress at Government Higher Primary School, Ramasamudra is a powerful example of how Yoga Gives Back’s mission—investing in education, empowering communities, and supporting girls—creates long-term impact. By addressing both academic and systemic needs, the program is helping children build skills, confidence, and opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.
Together, Yoga Gives Back and Deenabandhu Trust are proving that when education is nurtured with care and consistency, entire communities rise. Learn more about Yoga Gives Back’s Impact and ways to support our mission.
