the goan I network
BELAGAVI
The uniqueness about Chandgad taluka, the most backward taluka in Maharashtra bordering Belagavi district, is it was deprived of proper educational and other basic infrastructure.
Started with a missionary zeal, the school has turned out as success for Pilar Fathers and kindled the hopes of several villagers around Chandgad. About 400 students are pursuing their education now.
“Out of the 32 students, all have scored excellent marks. While 10 students have earned more than 95 percent marks, 17 students have scored distinction,” veteran Goan priest and manager of the school Fr Thomas Gonsalves, who has served in some of the reputed institutions in Mumbai and Goa, told The Goan.
Located about 35 kms from Belagavi on Vengurla road, Chandgad parish with three substations is the part of the Diocese of Belgaum.
Among others, Goan settlers belonging to various communidades in Goa have settled here since three centuries. While adapting to the local language and culture, they still lovingly observe Goan culture. Pilar Fathers commenced the school here 12 years ago with an intention of imparting education to the wards of poor farmers, labourers along with those working in government offices.
The success of the school has become special as it has been achieved under adverse conditions. Life is not easy for the villagers here. Deprived by modern facilities and with no additional coaching facilities, the Pilar Fathers have been striving hard to bring hopes in the lives of those who are deprived.
“Parents of most of the students are farmers and poor labourers, hence education in English medium was the remotest thing they could afford. We are doing our best to manage the school and we are happy that our hard work has yielded results,” a rather elated Fr Thomas told The Goan.
