Why Build a school

I was about four years old when my family and I had to leave my birthplace of Lahore, India (now Pakistan). It was during the conflict that resulted after the partition of original India into two countries (India and Pakistan). We resettled in a small, hilly town called Solan, located in the foothills of the Himalayas, on the Indian side of the new border. There, I studied at the V.D. High School through the 9th grade. This school will always bring fond memories of my early years in Solan.

After some 50 years of living in USA, I travel back to India in search of higher knowledge and I visited an Ashram near Solan, where I had the opportunity to visit a small school operating in tiny buildings where a local farmer used to shelter his animals. I had the chance to talk to the young children which immediately brought back all my fond childhood memories. I developed a strong bond with these children and also with the dedicated, well-educated teachers, who were offering their services for little or no compensation.

In 2011, I made a decision to donate the funds to help the school build a new building in order that these teachers could expand the beautiful gift they are giving educating young children. I am very pleased to let you know that in addition to my personal contribution, all the proceeds that I receive from the sale of my books / writings will go to help build and support this school.

Visiting school in Solan, India in November 2013

I was pleasantly surprised to see the school had acquired a computer and is occupying a space no more than five feet by five feet and now reaching new technology in combination with ancient wisdom. In spite of shortage of space, the school has increased enrollment from 170 to 184 students and three new teachers have been added.

My visit to the old school was the highlight when I found all the children had their winter uniform and they looked splendid and smart. They made me very proud like a grandfather gets pleasure seeking his grandchildren.

Ramesh with students of the school in Solan - November 2013