Objectives
The mission of APJ Abdul Kalam International Residential Tribal School is to impart quality academic education while instilling the values of self-sufficiency, humanity, social responsibility, and sustainability among tribal children of Attappady.
The school is dedicated to children from the tribal communities of Attappady—Irula, Muduga, and Kurumba—and envisions their holistic development through a structured and progressive learning journey from LKG to Higher Secondary level, with expansion planned year by year. The academic curriculum follows the Kerala State Board syllabus, delivered by qualified and committed teachers.
Alongside academics, equal importance is given to co-curricular learning. Students are trained in tribal folk arts, including traditional dance forms, vocal and instrumental music, and drama, guided by skilled masters from their own community. Athletics and sports are given high priority to ensure physical fitness and discipline.
The school campus serves as a living learning space where students actively engage in traditional cultivation practices, celebrate local tribal festivals, and stay deeply connected to their cultural roots. A well-developed botanical garden with over 1500 varieties of plants, along with a planned expansion to include 2500 medicinal and herbal plants, helps preserve and pass on indigenous knowledge, especially in traditional healing practices.
Environmental awareness is a core focus of the institution. Students are educated on nature conservation, ecosystem balance, and water literacy, which is especially vital in regions of Attappady facing water scarcity. The campus is equipped with sustainable facilities including an RO plant for safe drinking water, a 5 lakh litre capacity water storage system, and water recycling mechanisms.
To cultivate a strong reading habit, the school houses a well-equipped library with around 3000 books. Energy efficiency is promoted through the use of solar lighting and solar water heating systems across the campus.
Students are provided with ample opportunities for recreation and physical development through well-maintained playgrounds and activity spaces. Special training is offered in Drawing, Dance, Music, and traditional martial arts such as Kalari, Karate, and Chilambattam, along with cultural art forms like Chenda, Thambolam, and Band Set. A qualified and dedicated resource team ensures excellence in both curricular and co-curricular domains.
The school also emphasizes moral and family values by organizing regular family gatherings and community interactions. Beyond education, the institution aims at the rehabilitation and upliftment of students’ families by creating livelihood opportunities connected to the school, such as vegetable cultivation and poultry farming.
An experiential and inspiring learning environment is fostered by introducing students to great personalities from various fields, helping them broaden their vision and aspirations beyond the classroom.