Mysuru: Expressing concern over children developing the habit of playing with mobile phones, Mandya Government College Assistant Professor of English Dr. Priya Uttaiah Ittira advised parents to guide their wards on using mobile phones for acquiring useful knowledge.

She was speaking at the 11th annual School Day celebration at Kodagu Model School at Vidyashankara Layout in Sathagalli here yesterday.

Noting that Kodagu Model School has made tremendous progress in a decade, she complimented the school management, teachers and staff for their efforts in ensuring the progress of the school over the years.

Pointing out  that schools have a special place in everyone’s life, she highlighted the role of teachers in personality development of children. Underlining the responsibility of teachers in imparting knowledge to children, Dr. Priya Uttaiah said that it was important for the teachers to get themselves fully prepared before taking classes.

Highlighting the role of teachers and parents in making children self-reliant when they grow up, she said that though it was important for children to excel in academics, they should also ensure that children take part in extra-curricular activities as well.

Corporator Rukmini Madegowda, who spoke after inaugurating the programme, said that children should concentrate on learning and land top posts through hard work and dedication. She further said that she would respond if the school has any problems regarding civic amenities.

Sri Cauvery Kodava Association President K.D. Ponnappa, in his address, said that the School which started with just seven children 11 years ago, has grown by leaps and bounds over the years. 

Asserting that the school management is making continuous efforts to take the school to much greater heights, he wished the students all success in their academics and career.

The school children gave an exciting display of their talent by presenting a variety of cultural programmes, with messages on nature conservation. ‘Shiva Tandava’ dance by a group of 13 students earned special appreciation from the audience and so also other dance and drama performances.

The winners of various contests were distributed prizes on the occasion. M. Manisha, a third standard student who bagged fourth place and D.K. Yeshwanth, a sixth standard student who secured 11th place in a National-level Maths Contest, S.N. Jayashri, a first standard student, who secured second place, M.P. Niveda, a seventh standard student who bagged third place and Aishwarya S. Gowda, a sixth standard student who secured sixth place in a State-level Maths Contest and won Gold medals for their performance, were honoured.

Also, M. Mohit, M. Sharath, M.S. Harita and S. Inchara (play school), K.S. Dharmik, (LKG),  R. Yeshwanth and T.R. Samiksha (2nd std.), G. Aishwarya Lakshmi (3rd std.), M.S. Nischith Subramanya (4th std.), Bhakti Alphia (6th std.), M.P. Niveda, (7th std.), R. Manjunath and R. Narahari (9th std.), who came at the top in various contests, were distributed prizes.