Located in the serene village of Koduvally nestled in the Chikkamagaluru taluk of Karnataka, a school is operating a store which is known locally as ‘True Shop’. Here, school children have the opportunity to acquire pens, pencils, and books at wholesale prices. This isn’t just any campus store; rather, it’s a unique shop embedded within the school itself. Known as the True Shop, it stands out as a pioneering initiative. Surprisingly, it’s not run by a typical store owner. Instead, it operates on a principle of trust and responsibility among the students. There’s no strict inventory management or overseeing of financial transactions involved. The essence of the True Shop lies in its unconventional approach: allowing children to take what they need and deposit their money in a box.
If a student finds themselves short on funds, they can return items for others to use after using it themselves, fostering a culture of honesty and accountability. This also helps students to get an idea of business transactions from an early age.
This True Shop is situated within a government primary school. It stocks essential school supplies meticulously arranged in individual compartments. Each item’s price is clearly marked, encouraging children to manage their own purchases responsibly. The prices are with significant discounts. This unique setup not only caters to the academic needs of the students but also instils crucial life lessons in integrity and self-reliance.
The concept of the True Shop has garnered admiration, becoming a model for educational innovation across the region. It is not just about providing goods; it is about nurturing a sense of community and fostering responsible behaviour among the future leaders of tomorrow. The dedication and foresight of the school’s teaching staff in implementing this initiative deserve commendation, as they continue to shape young minds with practical wisdom and ethical values.