About Us
The History
Gopaldham Learning Center is an educational institution managed by the Shri Saurashtra Gandhiji Gramodhar Trust (Public Trust Register Number 188). Established in 1948 at Gadhada, in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, the trust was founded by J.C. Kumarappa, a renowned rural economist deeply influenced by Gandhian principles. Kumarappa envisioned true Swaraj through the development of remote villages. Since its inception, the trust has undertaken numerous rural transformation projects to improve the lives of surrounding communities.
In his book, Economy of Permanence: A Quest for Social Order Based on Non-Violence, J.C. Kumarappa lays out his economic philosophy. He draws inspiration from nature, where creatures coexist by fulfilling essential roles. Kumarappa states: "In this way, nature enlists cooperation from all its units. Each works for itself, yet in the process, helps others to thrive. When this harmonious cycle functions without disruption by violence, we have an economy of permanence."
Kumarappa contrasts this with the 'economy of transience,' where individuals prioritise only their well-being. He argues that this transient approach is inherently violent, ultimately depleting natural resources. His prime example is the unsustainable use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers. While these methods initially increase crop yields, they eventually damage the soil, leading to barren lands. In contrast, an economy of permanence promotes practices that sustain nature. Kumarappa emphasises the importance of long-term thinking and ecological balance for a thriving social order.
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Gopaldham was established in 1980 as an institution to expand the Trust’s rural development efforts in Rajkot district. Our campus occupies approximately 51 acres, featuring school facilities, farmlands, and a cowshed. Initially, Gopaldham aimed to create a supportive environment for individuals committed to rural development.
Over the past four decades, the Trust has implemented diverse programs encompassing agriculture, watershed development, wind and solar energy, afforestation, elementary education, and teacher training.
Our Vision
Providing high-quality education to rural youth to empower them to lead fulfilling and sustainable lives.
Our Mission
At Gopaldham Ashram Shala, our mission is to uplift the Scheduled Caste community by providing accessible, high-quality education in a safe and supportive residential setting. We aim to foster holistic development in our students, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to succeed in life.
Our Trustees
The success and growth of Gopaldham Ashram Shala are guided by a dedicated board of trustees.
- P K Lehri - Chairperson (Ex-Chief Secretary of Gujarat)
- Dr. Rajendra Khimani - Managing Trustee
- Arunbhai Dave - Trustee
- Damyantiben Modi - Trustee
Our trustees bring extensive experience and a strong dedication to our cause, ensuring that the school operates with integrity, transparency, and a focus on continuous improvement.
Meet Our Team
Asha Rathod
Facilitator
She joined our team this academic year. She has a B.A. in Sociology and one year of teaching experience. She is passionate about nurturing the holistic development of students at Gopaldham. She enjoys exploring, learning new things, and travelling. She has a lot of love and affection for the children.
Dayaben Kashekiya
Head Cook
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Jagdishbhai Rohit
Support Cook (BRS, MA in Social Work)
He graduated with a B.S. degree from a college run by our trust and later took the opportunity to work with it. He has been associated with our work for the last 28 years.
Jaysukh Dekhani
Senior Facilitator
He has been working at Gopaldham since February 2023. He enjoys the campus environment and appreciates that students live and study in the same place, giving them a real-world perspective. His goal for his students is to be self-sufficient and independent. He enjoys reading, watching movies, and playing cricket.
Rahul Bhadaniya
Facilitator
He joined our team recently. He completed his Primary Teacher Certificate course from Lok Bharti in 2021 and graduated with a B.A. in Sociology. Previously, he worked to support government primary school teachers in rural Gujarat. He enjoys working with students and adults at Gopaldham.
Rakesh Chaudhari
Senior Teacher
He has been working at Gopaldham for the past 20 years. He appreciates the campus environment and enjoys contributing to the community. He aims for his students to be independent, encouraging them to explore the real world and pursue their dreams. He enjoys drawing, singing, and playing sports.
Shankarbhai Ninama
Campus Caretaker
He has been working with Gopaldham for the past 24 years. He enjoys being surrounded by children, cows, and farms while ensuring that the school is up and running.
Sunita Patel
Principal
She has been working at Gopaldham for the past 23 years. She loves the campus for its peaceful atmosphere, which feels like home. She appreciates that students both live and study in the same place, giving them a sense of the real world. She aims for her students to be self-sufficient and encourages them to explore the world and pursue whatever careers they aspire to. She enjoys reading and travelling.
Vajabhai Ullava
Supporting Cook
He has been with Gopaldham for the past 27 years. He enjoys the environment and appreciates the place where students both study and live. His aspiration is for his students to be independent and capable of providing for their families. He has a passion for cricket and everything associated with it.
Varun Khimani
Director of Education
He spent most of his school breaks exploring the surrounding hills and farms of Gopaldham. He is drawn to working in the quiet and slow environment that Gopaldham offers. His dream is for his students to lead fulfilling lives and make a positive impact on their community. He enjoys travelling to the mountains, running, reading, and playing football.