One of the oldest schools in the city is set to get back its past glory, thanks to the efforts of its ex-students who have now come together to help the school. The alumni of Girgaum's iconic Wilson High School have formed a non-profit body to assist the school in all possible ways.
The 'Wilson High School Past Student association' which has evolved from the 'Wilson High School Old Boys Union' is set to celebrate Centennial year. As part of celebrations which is scheduled to be held on December 9, 2017, ex-students who are a part of the association are now working towards assisting the school in many ways — from providing technological support to teaching assistance.
Over the last few years, the 185-year-old institution which was set up by John Wilson, Scottish Christian missionary, and educator in 1832 has been struggling to keep pace with the changing times with a lower demand for state board schools. "Set up in 1917, the Wilson Boys union was an active group of students who met annually in the school and took up a lot of good initiatives. Over time, maintaining a database of all the ex-students became a task as many of them moved homes," said advocate Rajan Jaykar, a student of the 1963 batch.
Benaula Paul Pimenta, Headmistress of the school said, "We are happy to see the alumni taking efforts to assist the school in all ways possible. Thanks to their initiative and the help and support of our staff and the management, we are confident of doing well" she added.
Ajit Mandlik, student of the 1978 batch said "We are trying to pool in funds to be able to help the school. Most alumni members of the school are very well placed today and with the donations that we get."
ABOUT THE SCHOOL
- Wilson High school, set up in 1832 is currently running as a co-ed school in English and Marathi mediums
- Some of its alumni include prominent writer PK Atre, Mr M.C. Setalvad, First Attorney General of India, former cricketer Madhav Apte
