Field trips are one of the best ways for students to learn while being exposed to real life. Recently, the Grade 3 students at OWIS embarked on a field trip to witness and learn about the history and importance of Karnataka’s governance by visiting its very heart, Vidhana Soudha, Bangalore itself!
At OWIS, one of the best schools in Bangalore, we believe leadership is not just taught by books; it is cultivated through experience and exposure. The visit to Vidhana Soudha was not just a regular outing, it was the school putting its philosophy into action. The visit was designed to incite curiosity and instil a sense of civic responsibility in our students. So, let us see how this visit impacted our future leaders at OWIS!
Vidhana Soudha – OWIS Students Learn About Karnataka’s Governance
Vidhana Soudha is not merely an architectural marvel in Bangalore, it is much more! It is a powerful symbol of Karnataka’s democratic and administrative spirit. For the Grade 3 students of OWIS, stepping onto its grounds was like walking into the world of governance and learning essential lessons regarding public policy through the lens of a statesman.
The grand building left our students in awe as they walked through the corridors of what is known as the”people’s house.” At Vidhana Soudha, our students took on the role of young leaders on a journey to discover how Karnataka’s governance works.
During this visit, Mr Shekhar, our knowledgeable and experienced guide, informed students about the history and importance of the building where all the major state policies and decisions are made.
A Brief History of Vidhana Soudha
The Grade 3 students learnt the present importance of Vidhana Soudha, Bangalore, by exploring its rich history. They learnt that the building’s idea was first conceived by Shri Kengal Hanumanthaiah, the then Chief Minister of Mysore State. The first stone for the building was laid by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on July 13, 1951, with construction being completed in 1956. Our students were also informed about the predominantly Dravidian, indigenous architectural style of the building.
The vision behind Vidhana Soudha was to create an administrative building that would double as a monument to reflect the people’s sovereignty and Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage. The intricate carvings, along with the national emblem adorning its central dome, the building left our students mesmerised. The historical context further helped them gain a deeper understanding of the state’s identity and aspirations.
Creating Leaders of Tomorrow: Our Students at Vidhana Soudha
The Vidhana Souda visit was planned to help students understand the history and context of the various political and civic concerns of the state. As part of the IB Primary Years Programme, the students were encouraged to engage in critical thinking and discussions.
This visit took the learning beyond textbooks and brought to life concepts such as “government,” “legislation,” and “public service.” Students learnt about the Legislative Council Hall (Upper House), the Legislative Assembly Hall (Lower House), and law-making processes. They also saw the famous Sunflower Chair, a powerful symbol of hope, transparency, and democracy. It was a memorable story for children, as many even sketched it in their notebooks!
Our eager Grade 3 explorers navigated the halls of Vidhana Soudha and learned about the various key figures of state governance. They learned about the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers (the Cabinet), who form the executive branch responsible for implementing laws and running the administration.
Students were also exposed to the idea of public service as they interacted with officials and staff at Vidhana Soudha, gaining a sense of the dedication and hard work that goes into running a state. Students were encouraged to ask questions and were given patient and informative answers. It was an enriching experience for our students, which certainly motivated them to become leaders in the future!
Conclusion
The visit to Vidhana Soudha by OWIS Bangalore students was not just about seeing the physical structure; it was about understanding the invisible framework of rules and responsibilities that uphold democracy in Karnataka. Our students returned with more than just photographs and happy memories; they carried back a newfound appreciation for the democratic processes and interest in civic matters.
OWIS India, the best IB curriculum school in Bangalore, is a big advocate of experiential learning. Our efforts are always directed towards teaching students not just the concepts, but also making them knowledgeable and aware. We are steadfast in our commitment towards offering the best to students, and such visits are just one part of our efforts. To know more about how we enable the holistic development of children, get in touch with us today!
