Pune (Maharashtra) [India], February 02, 2024: Dr Dadasaheb Gulabrao Jagtap, who started his life in a farming family and a brick factory business, has dedicated himself to transforming rural education in Maharashtra. His journey, rooted in personal experience, led him to establish the Purandar Academy in 1996, aiming to bridge the gap in education for village children.
Born into a family deeply connected to agriculture and the brick industry, Dr Jagtap pursued his studies alongside working in the family business. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Pune City, witnessing the challenges rural communities face firsthand.
However, during his journey for education, Dr Jagtap identified a crucial gap: the lack of quality education in villages. This realisation, born from his experience, became the driving force behind his vision for Purandar Academy.
Established in 1996, the Academy aimed to provide village children with a modern, comprehensive education system. Dr Jagtap’s vision extended beyond academics, encompassing a holistic approach that fostered well-rounded individuals. The Academy’s curriculum emphasises academic excellence and values such as discipline, creativity, and social responsibility.
“Many rural schools lack the basic resources needed for quality education,” Dr. Jagtap explains. “Students struggle to concentrate in overcrowded classrooms without proper lighting or sanitation. This motivated me to create a different learning environment that fosters curiosity and empowers students.”
Dr. Jagtap’s story is one of dedication, vision, and a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education. He is a shining example of how individuals, driven by their own experiences and a commitment to their communities, can make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
