A 15-day “Acharya Prashikshan” (Teacher Training Camp) organized by Vidya Bharati Andhra Pradesh with the objective of transforming teachers into ideal Acharyas was inaugurated in a highly enthusiastic and inspiring atmosphere. Eminent personalities from the field of education attended the inaugural session as chief guests and guided the participating teachers.

Speakers lauded the remarkable efforts of Vidya Bharati in preserving and imparting India’s ancient Sanatana Dharma and cultural values to the younger generation while shaping students into responsible and exemplary citizens. The training camp commenced with grandeur at the local venue on Saturday.

Highlights of the Programme

A Blend of Tradition and Discipline

Addressing the gathering, the presiding dignitary welcomed the teachers who had travelled from distant places, leaving behind their families to participate in the training. Explaining the fundamental distinction between ordinary private educational institutions and Vidya Bharati schools, he emphasized that Vidya Bharati not only imparts academic knowledge but also instills discipline, values, and cultural ethos in students. He urged teachers to work towards achieving the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) by enabling students to become self-reliant and self-sufficient.

‘Panchapadi’ – A Pathway for Holistic Student Development

The chief guest, Sri Kanna Bhaskar, highlighted the significance of the training programme. He noted that although the duration of the programme has gradually been reduced from 40 days to 20 days and now to 15 days, the knowledge and experience gained through it remain invaluable. He encouraged teachers to thoroughly learn the “Panchapadi” teaching methodology, specially designed by Vidya Bharati to foster the physical, mental, and spiritual development of students.

He further stated that Vidya Bharati is dispelling the darkness of ignorance through its network of 176 schools across the state, including single-teacher schools (Ekopadhyaya schools) functioning in remote tribal regions and coastal villages.

An Acharya Must Lead by Example

The keynote speaker, Dr. Dasmuri Umamaheswara Rao, reminded participants of the profound responsibility entrusted to teachers.

He observed, “Not every teacher becomes an Acharya. A true Acharya is one who practices and exemplifies what he or she teaches.”

Referring to an incident from the life of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, he explained how the saint first gave up his own habit of consuming sweets before advising a child to do the same, thereby demonstrating the importance of leading by personal example.

Dr. Rao further remarked that during nearly twelve centuries of foreign rule, attempts were made to weaken India’s cultural heritage, and that today’s Acharyas bear the responsibility of restoring and strengthening those cultural foundations.

Discipline as the Foundation of Society

Former Member of Parliament from Nandyal, Sri Brahmananda Reddy, stated that imparting education is the noblest form of charity, as educating an individual contributes to the progress of an entire family. He expressed concern over the declining levels of discipline in contemporary society and hoped that Vidya Bharati schools would continue to stand as symbols of discipline and value-based education.

Objectives of the Training Programme

Speakers advised the participants to focus on the following areas during the 15-day training:

  • KSA Model: Developing Knowledge, Skills, and a positive Attitude.
  • Spiritual Enrichment: Memorizing the 33 verses of the Ekatmata Stotram and understanding the objectives of Vidya Bharati.
  • Moral Education: Eliminating negative traits such as ego and ostentation while nurturing divine qualities among students.
  • Technology and Tradition: Embracing modern technological advancements without neglecting India’s rich cultural traditions.

Brief Address by Sri Ramakrishna Reddy

Sri Ramakrishna Reddy extended his greetings to the distinguished guests on the dais and to all the participating Acharyas.

He warmly welcomed the teachers who had left their families to dedicate themselves to the noble mission of shaping the future of the nation.

He emphasized three important points:

1. An Acharya Must Be a Role Model

Vidya Bharati is not merely about classroom instruction but about imparting values. The distinguishing factor between Vidya Bharati institutions and ordinary schools lies in their commitment to samskara (value-based education). Teachers must practice what they teach, thereby becoming true Acharyas.

2. NEP and Self-Reliance

The objective of the National Education Policy is to enable students to stand on their own feet. Teachers have the responsibility to instill confidence in students and prepare them to become independent and capable individuals.

3. Dedicated Participation in Training

He urged the participants to engage in the training programme with concentration, patience, and commitment, and to implement the lessons learned during the camp in their respective schools, thereby fulfilling the vision and mission of Vidya Bharati.

Concluding his address, he wished all participants success in completing the training programme and contributing meaningfully to the advancement of value-based education.