Tucked away in a corner of Gujarat is a small village, Khanusa. Spread over 20 acres, St. Joseph’s School stands as a beacon of history and pride for every Indian. This institution’s tale is one of grit, perseverance, and strong, inclusive leadership. At the heart of this story is Mr. Peter Pullambra, a visionary who dared to dream big for his nation. Fondly known as “Uncle” to thousands of students,he  is not just an educator but a mentor who has created a nurturing home amidst nature.

Under his astute leadership and futuristic vision, St. Joseph’s School has embraced sustainability as a way of life. He has provided children with a holistic education that extends beyond the confines of a traditional classroom. The school’s ecosystem is deeply integrated with nature, where students participate in activities such as harvesting organic crops, managing fodder for cattle, rainwater harvesting, maintaining percolation wells, and utilizing biogas and solar cooking. Alongside these practical skills, students also engage in sports and academics. His goal has always been to offer his students a life close to nature, enriched by the lessons it imparts. His vision aims to prepare students to be self-sustainable, environmentally conscious, and responsible global citizens.

Today, alumni from St. Joseph’s School, Khanusa, spanning various ages and geographies, fondly remember their Uncle and Aunty. These alumni, now well-established in different parts of the world, attribute their success and happiness to the strong moral and ethical foundation their school provided.

His journey began with a humble upbringing as the second son in a family of eight. Young Peter would wake up early to help his father on the farm, attend school, and return to work on the farm in the evening. This close connection to nature planted the seeds of a dream that would eventually touch thousands of lives. After earning a B.Sc. in Physics from St. Joseph’s College, Devagiri, Calicut, he embarked on a teaching journey that took him from Kannur (1969) to Durgapur, Liluah, and finally to Mount Abu (1972). In 1974, Mr. and Mrs. Pullambra founded their first St. Joseph’s School in Mount Abu, marking the beginning of their educational legacy. In 1980, they moved to Vijapur, where the foundation stone of St. Joseph’s School was laid.

The school quickly became a harbinger of international and progressive thoughts, driven by his  wisdom and honest vision. The institution reached its full capacity in its first year, and by 1987, the first batch of SSCE students achieved a 100% pass rate.

With a vision for excellence and a steadfast commitment to student well-being, he has created a sustainable ecosystem at St. Joseph’s School. His efforts align with 11 of the 17 sustainable development goals set by the UN, an achievement that underscores his impact. Away from the limelight, he  remains an unsung hero whose aim has always been to balance academics, nature, and life. To this day, he is fondly remembered as ‘Uncle’ by thousands of alumni worldwide, the man who gave them much more than just an education.

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