Mrs. Mary Pullambra, affectionately known as the iconic ‘Aunty’ of St. Joseph’s School in Khanusa, is a testament to leadership, values, and principles. Born as the sixth child in a farmer’s family, she developed a profound connection with nature from an early age. This bond instilled in her an appreciation for modern farming techniques and the synergies between nature and technology, lessons that would later guide thousands of young minds.

As a young girl, she  learned the principles of sustainability, which became the cornerstone of her teachings. Her journey into education was marked by her marriage to Mr. Peter Pullambra, a union that led them from Mt. Abu to Khanusa, Vijapur, where they laid the foundation of their lifelong dream, St. Joseph’s School. This institution became a beacon of progressive and international education, achieving an impressive 100% pass rate with its first batch of SSCE students.

Her  role at St. Joseph’s extended far beyond her official duties. She was more than a teacher and head of the school; she was a nurturing presence and a mother figure to her students. Known affectionately as ‘Aunty,’ she provided warmth, mentorship, and care to all. In the boarding quarters, she was the go-to person for sick children, offering comfort, medical care, and specially prepared meals. Even in cases of contagious diseases, Aunty was always there, ensuring that no child felt neglected.

Her involvement wasn’t limited to health care; Aunty was integral to the school’s various projects, including solar heating, rainwater harvesting, and the biogas plant. She was omnipresent in classrooms and beyond, consistently contributing to the holistic development of the school environment. Alumni fondly recall her as a nurturing figure who made St. Joseph’s a home away from home. One alumnus beautifully summed up her impact, saying, “No matter how far we may have gone to spread our wings, home will always be Saint Joseph’s School and Aunty would always be a Mother to us.”

Students from decades past remember her unconditional love and support in all aspects of their lives, from academics to emotional well-being and moral growth. she ensured that the school felt like a family, where students’ needs and concerns were always addressed with care and affection. She and her husband, Mr. Peter Pullambra, were known for their responsiveness, whether it was preparing special meals upon request or providing a listening ear to troubled students.

Her  concern extended to the welfare of the staff and their families, making her a mother figure to both students and staff alike. Her values of duty and welfare permeated the entire school community, creating a nurturing and supportive environment.

Together with her husband, she  shared a vision of an educational institution that transcended the conventional boundaries of the classroom. At St. Joseph’s, values were nurtured, children grew close to nature, and essential life skills were imparted. Aunty, as she is fondly known, was the epicenter of this journey of excellence. A fierce leader and gentle soul, she continues to be the heart and soul of St. Joseph’s School, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of all who have passed through its doors.

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