In commemoration of the 75th anniversary of Chinmaya Mission Global and ahead of the 181st anniversary of the arrival of East Indian indentured labourers, the Government has leased approximately 12 acres of State land, located in Calcutta #1, to Chinmaya Mission Trinidad and Tobago.
Speaking at the official lease handover ceremony on Tuesday, Minister of Land and Legal Affairs Saddam Hosein said the Cabinet decision goes beyond paperwork and represents a commitment to the future of national development through education.
‘Today, I asked Swamiji, what next? He said that they are going to expand this particular piece of land because what we are on is just a piece of it. The Government, through the Cabinet, has agreed to give the Chinmaya Mission 12 acres of land right here. Twelve acres. And it will be at an institutional lease of $1 per annum.”
He commended the institution for its holistic approach to education and its continuous outstanding academic achievements while commemorating the 75th anniversary of Chinmaya Mission Global.
“In 2003, I don’t know if anyone would’ve believed Swami Ji that you would’ve been sitting here in this prestigious, modern institution. You had three students here in 2003, I’m told, three students. Today over 400 students graduate from the Chinmaya Mission with 100% pass rate. One hundred per cent pass rate – that is absolutely commendable.”
Pujya Swami Prakashananda Ji thanked the Government for what he described as its efficiency in delivering the lease, adding that it will significantly support the institution’s continued development.
“Trinidad and Tobago is a leader in that sense because, prior to this school coming here, we did not have any other school outside India, so it is the first time, and I am proud to say that that initiative was led by Trinidad and Tobago to take this type of education outside India and bring it to the world.”
Minister of Education, Dr. Michael Dowlath, underscored the important role denominational schools play in the country.
“This government remains firmly committed to expanding equitable access to education, strengthening partnerships with denominational boards and faith-based organisations, and ensuring that every child is given an opportunity to learn, an opportunity to access quality education.”
Member of Parliament for Couva South, Barry Padarath, expressed hope for continued expansion of the institution.
“I would like to see this institution grow from strength to strength, with your vision, your hard work, your dedication, to see it turn into a campus in any way possible.”
An official at the school, Jaikaran Canaan, said Chinmaya Vidyalaya was established in 2003, with classes initially held at the Chinmaya Ashram.
He noted that the process of acquiring land for the institution has been a long and challenging journey.
“We would have applied for a piece of land to erect an educational institution and we have been waiting. After 13 long years, this historic day has finally arrived through divine intervention.”