Purnachandra Mishra. Telegraph picture

It has always been a challenge for Purnachandra Mishra, headmaster of Ravenshaw Collegiate School in Cuttack, to maintain the standard of education at the premier school, which is one of the first and oldest educational institutions in the state.

Established in 1851, the Odia-medium school has produced many eminent scholars, national leaders, freedom fighters, educationists and bureaucrats. At present, the school has 750 students from Class IV to Class X and 30 teachers.

Mishra, who joined as the headmaster in 2010, has been trying hard to ensure that the students make a mark, not only in academics, but also in extracurricular activities.

“When I was appointed headmaster, the concept of free and compulsory education was introduced. Therefore, it was a big challenge for me to strike a balance between the new system and quality of education,” said Mishra. Earlier, only meritorious students were admitted to the school after being screened through an entrance examination. However, now that the admission process is based on a “first come-first serve” basis, there has been a gradual decline in the number of academically bright students at the school, he said.

“In a bid to tide over such a situation, I have introduced a proctorial system, in which one teacher is asked to take care of the studies of 20 students in their respective classes,” Mishra said.

He said monthly tests are conducted and the students who perform poorly are given extra attention. Guardians are also called to review the progress of their children on a regular basis.