Ortus International School, Hyderabad, was officially launched in a grand event marked by a vision of reimagined education for the future. Designed with a philosophy that balances cutting-edge technology with traditional human values, Ortus International is setting a new benchmark in learning. The name “Ortus,” meaning “beginning” in Latin, aptly captures this journey into an education model that promises to redefine student engagement, adaptability, and holistic development.
The launch was graced by esteemed dignitaries, education leaders, and Ortus’s founders and mentors, including Dr. Prasanna Mandava, Mr. Naga Tummala, and Mr. Raj Yarlagadda, who collectively bring decades of expertise in academia. The evening was highlighted by the unveiling of the Ortus logo and brochure by Naga Tummala, Raj Yarlagadda, and Dr. Prasanna Mandava, symbolizing the start of this new educational venture in Hyderabad’s Kokapet region.
A Visionary Approach to Education
Ortus International School is the realization of Dr. Prasanna Mandava’s vision. With a career spanning over three decades in education, Dr. Mandava’s dedication has been evident in his contributions as a founding member and Academic Director at Vikas Educational Institutions, and as Joint Managing Director at People Combine Educational Initiatives, which includes Oakridge International Schools, Westberry Schools, and Oi Playschools. At Ortus, he has combined this deep experience to pioneer a comprehensive, forward-thinking curriculum that blends CBSE and Cambridge syllabi with project-based learning and a non-linear pedagogy.
Dr. Mandava emphasized the school’s mission during his speech: “We recognize that traditional methods often fall short in preparing students for the complexities of our rapidly changing world. Ortus pioneers a holistic, value-based approach, integrating non-linear pedagogy with the latest trends in technology, project-based learning, and personalized education. Whether your child is a budding scientist, an aspiring artist, or exploring their passions, Ortus is about empowering every student to discover their potential at their own pace.”
Merging Technology and Human Values
Ortus’s curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in a world that demands creativity, adaptability, and empathy. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the learning process, spearheaded by mentor Mr. Naga Tummala, co-founder of Coschool.ai, is one of the standout features. AI technology helps educators tailor lessons to each student’s unique learning style, ensuring an individualized approach to education that caters to diverse needs within the classroom.
Mr. Tummala explained the role of AI in Ortus’s learning environment, saying, “Tech-driven learning can make personalized education possible for every child, even in a classroom of diverse children with diverse learning patterns and paces. Our approach to AI integration enhances the educator’s ability to provide tailored support for each student. By reducing the workload, AI enables educators to focus on accessing information quickly, providing one-on-one mentoring, and exploring vast educational possibilities.” This approach to AI, combined with Ortus’s commitment to maintaining a balance between technological advancement and emotional intelligence, reinforces the school’s people-centric philosophy.
A Holistic, Child-Centered Environment
Beyond academics, Ortus is committed to nurturing every aspect of a child’s growth. The school offers a range of co-curricular programs, including sports, arts, and music, along with a special Global Perspectives and Sustainable Future module, which takes students into natural spaces each week. These green learning experiences aim to instill an appreciation for nature, promote sustainable practices, and encourage students to become environmentally responsible global citizens.
Mr. Raj Yarlagadda, a veteran in managing educational institutions like Oakridge and Vikas, highlighted the cultural philosophy of Ortus during the launch. “It is a proud moment for us as we reimagine learning in a culture of innovation with this flagship school. As educators, we understand that in today’s rapidly evolving world, success will belong to those seeking creative solutions to challenges. We are confident that Ortus International School will be a beacon of thoughtful learning and creative thinking for students.”
The leadership team at Ortus also includes the distinguished Mr. Karunakara Rao Dasari, a retired IRS officer, alongside board members Mahesh Lankipalli, Anirudh Reddy Jillela, Yasaswini Mandava, and Nithin Reddy Jillela, who together bring a wealth of expertise to support Ortus’s mission for excellence.
An Evening of Celebration
The launch event for Ortus International School was a memorable affair, brimming with energy, color, and creativity. Students from Westberry School, under the guidance of Principal Sarah Smitha Sali, and cultural performers from Veda Academy and Nishrinkala Academy showcased their talents in a variety of performances. The evening concluded with musical performances led by young talents from the Little Musicians Academy of Hyderabad, under the mentorship of Guru Ramachary, adding a soulful touch to the celebration.
Ms. Seshu Latha Kodali, Head of Academics at Ortus International School, delivered the vote of thanks, bringing the evening to a close. Her words echoed the school’s commitment to a progressive, nurturing educational journey: “Ortus is not just a school; it is a community where each child’s potential will be recognized, celebrated, and cultivated. We are thrilled to open our doors to students and parents, and to embark on this journey of growth, creativity, and endless possibilities.”
Ortus International School has made a grand entry into Hyderabad’s educational landscape, with a promise of happy, student-centered learning in a supportive and advanced environment. Parents seeking a well-rounded, future-ready education for their children can look to Ortus as a beacon of modern learning, where the focus is on developing innovative, empathetic thinkers who are ready to shape a better tomorrow. The Ortus journey has begun, and it’s one of hope, inspiration, and the beginning of something truly transformative in education.
