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Interview with Durai Ganesh, Superintendent for the Shantimalai schools
What is most important to me is to develop an environment where every child can learn and grow. We want to ensure that children from rural backgrounds have access to the same quality of education, exposure, and opportunities as their urban counterparts.
What is your role in the Shantimalai Schools?
As superintendent, my role is to provide leadership and strategic direction for both schools. I am responsible for staffing, recruitment, and teacher development. I am the liaison with the government authorities and make sure we are compliant with all regulations.
Two Shanthimalai Schools operate in rural Tamil Nadu, India:
Tell us about your background.
I grew up in the northeastern part of India, where I was educated in the Gurukulam style, which focuses on holistic development encompassing intellectual, spiritual, and practical life. This foundation shaped both my outlook on life and my approach to education. I moved to Tiruvannamalai to complete my Ph.D. in Physics.
My father, a teacher who established a school, gave me the opportunity to work closely with him, through which I gained practical experience in school administration.
“When I visited the Sannidhi in the Shantimalai Ashram, the place resonated so deeply with me, I felt a quiet conviction that is is where I am meant to contribute.”
Please describe the environment and home life of the students at the schools.
Our students often grow up in households where parents are engaged in daily wage work or agriculture, and many are first-generation learners. Many students begin with weak foundational skills and have minimal opportunity to practice language or communication outside school. Emotional insecurity and lack of consistent support can also affect focus, behaviour, and self-confidence, and can lead to irregular attendance.
We believe in both a structured and compassionate approach. We provide counselling support, conduct home visits, and have one-on-one meetings with parents to strengthen parental involvement.
How would you describe the values and culture of the school?
The culture of the school is rooted in a holistic approach to education, extending beyond academic performance to the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual development of each child.
Guided by values such as love and compassion, honesty, integrity, and responsibility, equal importance is given to attitudes and character alongside knowledge. We have a strong emphasis on equality, dignity, and social and environmental responsibility.
In the classroom, teachers offer individualized attention to build foundational skills, confidence, and overall development.
We strive to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every child can learn, discover his or her potential, and grow with confidence.
In the early years level, through our Joyful Learning program, we are making kindergarten learning more meaningful and engaging.
We are currently focusing on several initiatives: During the early years, through our Joyful Learning program, we are making kindergarten learning more meaningful and engaging. We are also increasing parent engagement. A key focus is on teacher development through continuous training and English learning programs. In parallel: We are upgrading infrastructure, including a new computer lab, and promoting wellbeing through practices such as yoga and meditation.
We are upgrading infrastructure,
including a new computer lab.
A key focus is on teacher development through continuous training.
Shanthimalai Schools are part of a larger vision of creating meaningful and lasting change through education. While we continue to strengthen systems, infrastructure, and academic standards, our core focus remains on nurturing each child with care, attention, and a strong value base.
With the blessings of Appa and Amma and the continued support we receive, we are able to reach children who would otherwise have limited access to such opportunities.
Every step forward is a collective effort, and we remain committed to carrying this work forward with sincerity and responsibility.
Your gift will transform the life of a child.
Your gift will transform the life of a child.
What differentiates Shanthimalai Schools is this balance between academic progress and inner development.
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