Bhatkal: The Govt Higher Primary School in Muttalli, which has completed 70 years since its establishment, will be celebrating its milestone with an Annual Alumni Cultural Meet on February 22. The event is being jointly organized by the School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMC) and the Alumni Association, and will be inaugurated by Uttara Kannada district incharge minister Mankal Vaidya, informed Dr. Ravi Naik, President of the Alumni Association.

Speaking at the invitation card release ceremony held on the school premises on Thursday, Dr. Ravi Naik highlighted the school's journey since its inception in 1955. Initially, the school started in a small shed, with Raghu Bhat Sir playing a key role in its foundation. Meanwhile, Dattatreya Sir used to conduct night classes in Mood Bhatkal.

In the early days, Venkappa Naik, who was the head of the area, showed great interest in promoting education. The school initially operated with only two classrooms, catering to students from Grades 1 to 4. Later, permission was granted to extend the school up to Grade 7.

Over the years, the school has produced thousands of successful students who have gone on to excel as doctors, engineers, bankers, railway employees, teachers, police officers, and forest officials, besides many who have ventured into self-employment and contributed to society in various fields.

Dr. Ravi Naik also mentioned that due to the absence of annual gatherings or alumni meets over the last 20 to 30 years, the upcoming event on February 22 is expected to be a grand reunion. The school has been making remarkable achievements at the taluk and district levels, securing first place in the "Best Practices in Schools" category at the taluk level and third place at the district level. Additionally, current students have won several Pratibha Karanji and other awards for their talents.

He called upon all former students, well-wishers, and the local community to extend their support and actively participate in making this event a success. "We eagerly await your presence and look forward to welcoming you all with great enthusiasm," he added.

The event was attended by SDMC president Ananth Naik, Headmaster Ganga Moger, and teachers including Gajanan Naik, Vijay Kumar, Lata, Deepa Sridhar Naik, Hanumanth Naik, Manjunath Naik, Gajanan Bhat, Venkataramana Naik, Manjunath S. Naik, and Manjunath D. Naik.