Creating a brighter future for Gnanodaya children

In the 1990s, we laid the foundation for Gnanodaya High School in Venkatapuram village, near Singaperumal Koil, Chengalpet, Tamil Nadu. This initiative was born from the vision of Mr. Chandran Tucker and Ms. Helga Tucker, both driving forces behind DIK (German Association for Children’s Education), with support from the St John’s Leprosy Welfare Association.

Our journey began with a commitment to making a difference, and the impressive work caught the attention of DIK. Inspired by our efforts, DIK facilitated the acquisition of land for the construction of the school. This marked the start of a meaningful venture, especially after the World Health Organization declared India leprosy-free, leading DIK to shift its focus to African countries.

As we continued our mission, the "Gnanodaya Rehabilitation Association" took shape. Under the capable leadership of President Mrs. Padma Venkataraman, daughter of the former President Ramaswamy Venkataraman, the association has been the driving force behind the school's operations. Today, the association oversees Gnanodaya School, a haven for 176 students (95 boys, 81 girls), with 60 residing in hostels and the remainder attending as day scholars. Our dedicated team of 18 qualified individuals ensures that the school, recognized by the government, provides education from pre-school to 10th standard, with ambitious plans for expansion to include 11th and 12th standards.

Our focus has always been on leprosy-affected and underprivileged children, including approximately 20 from leprosy-affected families. At Gnanodaya Rehabilitation Association, we seamlessly blend grassroots education with urban resurgence. Over the past three decades, our unwavering commitment has empowered these children through education, significantly enhancing their quality of life and fostering dignity and equity.