In the spirit of giving

The State government’s acknowledgment of the work of those who have dedicated their lives for the betterment of society was in keeping with the spirit of the festive season. On Friday, chief minister 

K. Chandrashekar Rao felicitated several such people at the annual Christmas Party at LB Stadium. Amongst the awardees was Beula Gabriel, the 77-year-old principal of St Joseph’s Secondary School (SJSS) in Hyderabad’s East Marredpally.

Speaking on the recognition, the educationist says, “It is nice to be recognised for your efforts. We started the school 25 years ago mainly for students coming from an underprivileged background. More than any award, the actual satisfaction comes when we see our former students settled in good jobs here and abroad.”

Starting a school and giving back to society was a dream for both Gabriel, who had started her career in education as a lecturer, and her husband. Of course, all has not been rosy, and Gabriel has had her share of challenges. “As most of our students come from underprivileged backgrounds, we either don’t take fees or their fee is discounted. But running a school is not fun, it’s an uphill task. There are a lot of expenses to take care of, right from giving salaries to maintaining the building,” she shares. Talking about what the future holds for her, Gabriel says, “I hope my children, too, follow in my steps and take care of the school and expand it in the years after I retire.”