Vidya Mytri Trust

Vidyamythri Trust implements holistic educational programs in rural North Karnataka, aiming to bridge learning gaps and empower marginalized communities. Its key focus is on foundational literacy and numeracy for children in government primary schools through activity-based supplementary teaching. For middle and high school students, it offers academic support, mentoring, and exam readiness sessions. The Trust regularly conducts teacher training workshops to enhance classroom effectiveness and promotes community participation through SDMC strengthening and awareness campaigns. Youth mentorship programs help rural youth build leadership and life skills. Vidyamythri also explores low-cost digital learning tools to enrich education and make classrooms more engaging. All programs are designed in close collaboration with local schools and communities, ensuring cultural relevance and sustainable impact. The Trust’s work is grounded in the belief that quality education can drive long-term social change.

Vidyamytri Model School: A Vision for Rural Educational Excellence The Vidyamytri Model School is an innovative and inclusive educational initiative designed to provide high-quality, child-centered learning in rural and underserved regions of Karnataka. This model school aims to be a beacon of possibility—offering an inspiring, well-resourced learning environment that addresses the specific challenges faced by children in backward regions like Kushtagi block villages. Key Features of the Model School *Child-Centric Approach- Focus on experiential, joyful learning using activity-based and project-based pedagogy. *Holistic Infrastructure- Well-ventilated classrooms, digital learning spaces, a library, clean sanitation facilities, a kitchen for mid-day meals, and green outdoor spaces. *Trained and Motivated Teachers- Professionally trained educators who use interactive, inclusive, and multilingual teaching methods. *Bilingual Curriculum Support- Emphasis on strong foundational literacy and numeracy in Kannada and English. *Technology Integration- Use of digital tools and e-learning resources to bridge the digital divide. *Community and Cultural Integration- Curriculum embedded with local knowledge, traditions, and real-life rural contexts to make learning more relevant and engaging. *Inclusive Education- Special support for first-generation learners, children with learning difficulties, and girls from marginalized communities. Sustainability and Community Ownership Vidyamythri Model School is not just a place to teach children, but a space to inspire an entire community. By involving local teachers, youth volunteers, parents, and panchayat members, the model ensures long-term sustainability and community pride.

1. 350 children with disabilities from 176 villages in Kushtagi Block have been identified and are receiving services at the Vidya Mytri Trust's Early Intervention Centre.
2. Parents and caregivers of 350 children were trained and counselled, enabling them to access services and support their children's progress.
3. Children are provided with necessary aids and appliances for rehabilitation.
4. Ongoing early stimulation and therapy services are provided to children at the centre and in the community.
5. 350 children with disabilities are enrolled in social security benefits, including Aadhar card, Unique Disability ID, Pension.

The state no doubt admits children with disabilities in schools. But they do not get the required support in schools as far as learning is concerned. There are only 3 special teachers allotted for 700. It is highly impossible for these two teachers to educate all of them and support regular teachers. Some of the schools are single teacher schools which makes learning for children with disabilities a farfetched dream and teaching them is herculean task for teachers.
Early intervention
The state Chid development department does put in efforts to identify children through RBSK . But the intervention does not take place at taluk level parents have to travel 120 kms to avail rehabilitation facilities provided by district rehabilitation centre.
These factors have triggered a thought in the trustees and senior members of Vidyamythri trust to delve in to this area
One of our trustees Mrs Usharani is an expert in the area of Disability. She has had 35 years of experience in the area.