Daijiworld Media Network - Koppal

Koppal, Dec 27: Birappa Andagi, headmaster of the Government Higher Primary School at Bahaddurbandi in Koppal taluk, has set a remarkable example by taking 24 students on an airplane journey to Bengaluru at his own personal expense.

On December 26, a total of 40 people, including 24 students, the SDMC president and members, and school teachers, travelled to Bengaluru via the Jindal airport. The excitement among the students was clearly visible as many of them experienced air travel for the first time. The students boarded the flight from Jindal airport and flew to the state capital.

Selection through examination

To provide students with the opportunity of air travel, Birappa Andagi had conducted an examination in April for students studying in classes 5 to 8. Of the 220 students who appeared for the test, 24 were selected and taken on the educational trip to Bengaluru by air.

Prior to the journey, the selected students were formally felicitated at the deputy commissioner’s office, where MP Rajshekhar Hitnal extended his best wishes to them.

Birappa Andagi reportedly spent around Rs 3.5 lac to book a chartered flight, and stated that the total expenditure, including additional costs, may go up to Rs 5 lac. Apart from students and teachers, he also ensured that the school development committee president, members, and even mid-day meal staff were included in the air journey.

Birappa Andagi’s gesture has drawn widespread appreciation from all quarters for inspiring students and promoting experiential learning beyond the classroom.