National High School & National PU College Felicitate Outstanding Students with Prathibha Puraskar

By Staff Reporter
Pics by Subhanu Photos, Barkur
Bellevision Media Network

Udupi/Barkur: In a proud and inspiring start to the new academic year 2025–26, National High School and National PU College, Barkur, hosted the ‘Prathibha Puraskar ceremony’ on Saturday, 14th June 2025, to honour the meritorious students of the academic year 2024–25.

 

The event was held in fond remembrance of two towering personalities associated with the institution — the visionary founder and legendary Headmaster for 25 long years – 1946 – 71, late Shri P.N. Bhoja Rao, and the distinguished alumnus late Sri Sri Sri Purushottamananda Swamiji. Their birth anniversaries were commemorated on this day, adding significance and solemnity to the program.

 

Scholarships and endowment cash prizes were awarded to SSLC and PUC students who had excelled in their State level Board examinations and brought laurels to their institution and families.

 

Mr. Shedikodlu Vittal Shetty, Vice President of The Barkur Educational Society, presided over the function. In his address, he praised the efforts of the staff and management, especially the High School faculty, for securing 100% SSLC results and raising the academic profile of the institution and appreciated the hard work of new Principal Mrs Usha Kiran Shetty and her dedicated team for their best efforts in imparting best and value based education in this 80 years old temple of learning.

 

The chief guest, Mr. Ashok Kumar Shetty, Secretary of The Barkur Educational Society, delivered an insightful and motivational speech, urging students to strive for excellence not only in academics but also in personal values and social responsibility. In spite of challenges and hardships, he informed that the College Management is committed to provide a conducive learning atmosphere with best infra structure for the benefit of economically poor in this region….

The program began with a prayerful hymn rendered by Class IX students, invoking the blessings of the Almighty. Mrs. Usha Kiran Shetty, Principal of the PU College, extended a warm and cordial welcome to the gathering.

 

The ceremonial lighting of the traditional lamp was followed by a meaningful message by Mr. Archibald Furtado, Administrative Coordinator of the National Group of Educational Institutions. He highlighted the purpose and relevance of the Prathibha Puraskar, stressing the importance of remembering and honouring the contributions of exemplary personalities like Shri P.N. Bhoja Rao and Purushottamananda Swamiji and other donors who continue to inspire students and educators alike.

 

Mr. Gopala Naik, Correspondent of the institutions, addressed the gathering with encouraging words. He congratulated the achievers and extended a special welcome to the new students of Class VIII and I PUC, encouraging them to embrace the values and academic culture of National Institutions.

 

Mrs. Jyothi Shetty, Senior Science Teacher, read out the names and achievements of the High School award winners, while Mrs. Jyothi, Lecturer in Kannada, presented the details of the outstanding performers from the PU College.

 

The program was ably compeered by Mr. Maruti, Kannada teacher, who ensured the smooth and engaging flow of events.

 

Mrs. Hemavathy P.S., Headmistress of the High School, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all dignitaries, staff, students, parents, and supporters of the institution.

 

The Prathibha Puraskar ceremony, an annual event, was a true celebration of academic excellence, institutional legacy, and inspiration — setting the tone for yet another year of success and holistic development.