Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Sept 4: In a proud moment for Ullal taluk and the coastal education fraternity, Jagadeesh Shetty A, headmaster of the Government Higher Primary School in Ambalmogaru, has been conferred the coveted state-level "Best Teacher Award" for 2024.
A resident of Eliyana in Kurnool, Shetty has dedicated 37 years to the field of education, including 13 years as headmaster. He began his career in 1988 at Ira Balepuni School in Bantwal and has since transformed the Ambalmogaru School into a model institution through his commitment and visionary leadership.
“This recognition is not just mine; it belongs to the students, staff, parents, and the local community who supported every step of our journey,” said Shetty, humbled by the honour.
Under his stewardship, the school has witnessed a significant rise in student enrolment from 106 to 217. He also led the establishment of a high school section. With the support of local donors and community members, Shetty spearheaded the construction of a Rs 1.28 crore building, revolutionising the school's infrastructure and academic environment.
He introduced free bus transportation, launched LKG and UKG classes, and began bilingual education in Kannada and English, positioning the government school as a preferred choice for parents. “We believed that government schools could deliver world-class education if given the right vision and resources,” Shetty remarked.
The school now features Smart TV and computer-based teaching, modern classroom furniture, and a fully equipped computer lab. Shetty also created a permanent endowment fund to support and recognise meritorious students.
As part of the school’s centenary celebrations, he is overseeing the construction of a Rs 1 crore commemorative building and an open-air theatre. Notably, he played a key role in donating a Bolero vehicle to the local education office through community contributions.
A dedicated Scout leader for over 35 years, Shetty holds the designation of assistant leader trainer and has trained hundreds of teachers across Karnataka. He has participated in national-level camps in Delhi, Odisha, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Varanasi, Nepal, and the Andamans, gaining valuable experience and exposure.
He has also taken the lead in organising state-level community development camps, Cub-Bulbul festivals, and district and taluk-level Scout–Guide conventions.
For the past 14 years, Shetty has served as state zonal organising secretary of the Karnataka State Primary School Teachers’ Association, vice-president of the District Teachers' Association, and president of the Taluk Teachers' Association, working tirelessly for the welfare of educators.
His contributions to society extend well beyond the school. He is a member of the District Red Cross Society, secretary of the Literacy Continuation Learning Centre, treasurer of the Chigurupade Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple Trust, and president of the Meenja Buntara Sangha. He also facilitated the construction of a mini hall and commercial complex and secured the donation of one acre of land from Kuloor Kanyana Sadashiva Shetty for community development.
Despite his full schedule, Shetty remains a passionate and progressive farmer, cultivating paddy, arecanut, coconut, banana, and rubber, along with exotic fruits such as rambutan, butter fruit, and mangosteen.
Born into an agricultural family in Eliyana, Kuloor, he lives with his wife, a government school teacher in Talapady. Both of their children are civil engineers in independent practice, and their daughter is married into a well-known Bunt family.
Over the years, Shetty has received numerous accolades, including the best disciplined school award, best sanitation award, people’s favourite teacher award, district-level best teacher award, Kerala State Tulu Academy honour, long service scout award, JCI best teacher award, Rotary Outstanding Teacher Award, Karavali Cultural Council Award, and a special centenary celebration honour.
“Whether inside the classroom, in the community, or out in the fields, my commitment has always been to serve with integrity and compassion,” Shetty reflected.
His unwavering dedication to education, student welfare, and community service has rightfully earned him this prestigious state-level recognition, bringing pride not only to Ambalmogaru School but to the entire Ullal region.