Transforming lives, students show the way

People in Arkelgudem, an obscure village in Shamirpet mandal, are a refreshed lot, thanks to getting initiated into the importance of maintaining cleanliness, individual health and hygiene and sending children to school.

This overnight change in outlook has come at the behest of some determined college-going boys and girls from Hyderabad, who camped there and rendered their bit as part of an ‘Impact Day’ conducted in the village last week.

In keeping with their avowed mission, enthusiastic volunteers from Street Cause St Martin’s, one of the 30 colleges affiliated to the exclusive student-run NGO, tried bringing in a difference in lifestyle, which went well with the locals, who seemed bemused at first but were ‘enlightened’ by evening that concluded with friendly cricket and kho-kho matches played by the kids.

According to Akshay Manchala, one from the driving force, they split into groups and undertook several works as part of the ‘Impact Day’ activities. It included refurbishing of school premises, distribution of school material and conducting a medical camp, much to the delight of the villagers, including those from the adjoining areas.

Arkelgudem Government High School and Anganvadi School, boasting of a student-strength of around 50, are sporting a vibrant look now following the meticulous makeover given by the boys and girls from Street Cause St Martin’s.

Apart from painting the walls, installing doors for washrooms and putting in place a water tank, the young brigade gave away chairs, benches, cupboards, bags and books. It was an occasion that saw women attending a yoga session while all elders were exhorted to continue with periodical review of living conditions, particularly those pertaining to health and hygiene.

A team of dedicated personnel, constituting the medical unit, conducted CBP, hypertension and blood sugar tests. Nearly 170 persons benefitted from the gesture whereupon medicines were also distributed.

Mostly drawn from Pulla Reddy Institute of Pharmacy, the ‘medicos’, who turned up for the Good Samaritan work included Ch Usha Sree, K Mounika, S Pruthvi Raj, V Shravani, D Manvitha, K Priyanka and KN Shravya.

There is no denying that these youngsters are setting the finest of examples, which the elders and men in authority would do well if they take cue and go about similar measures as part of societal responsibilities so as to bring about smiles in under-privileged households. As they say, charity begins at home!

By Sridhar K Penna