By Yu-Mei Chuang, Mei-Hui Li 

A Canvas of Change 

On January 14, 2025, Principal Bajnath Kumar and students of Suryapura Middle School embarked on a mission to brighten their campus. With the help of local and overseas Tzu Chi volunteers, the school’s walls were adorned with vibrant murals carrying uplifting messages such as "Speak kind words, think good thoughts, do good deeds" and "Don't underestimate yourself, everyone has unlimited potential." 

The collaboration brought an infectious energy to the school, with students eagerly picking up brushes and contributing their creativity to the transformation. 

A School That Gives Back 

Home to 314 students, Suryapura Middle School strives to provide equal learning opportunities. Principal Kumar, with guidance from Malaysian volunteer Amy Yao, initiated an English tutoring program for 6th and 7th graders, encouraging students to support one another in their studies. 

Inside his office, a hand-drawn Happy Teacher’s Day greeting and a bamboo bank—a symbol of small contributions making a big difference—stand as reminders of the school's values. Every Monday, students place coins in the bamboo bank, embracing the spirit of giving. 

To support the school, Tzu Chi provided funding for campus beautification, and together with Principal Kumar, Yao selected potted plants to bring more greenery to the school. Once dry and dusty, the grounds now bloom with flowers, creating a more welcoming and refreshing space for learning. 

Art as Expression 

As Principal Kumar painted green leaves on the walls—symbolizing his dedication to nurturing students—local volunteer Rozi Parween added a lifelike butterfly. The creative process became more than an aesthetic project; it was an experience of growth and self-expression. 

One student, Sangam, carefully outlined a large butterfly representing his mother, his eyes focused with deep concentration. Nearby, 6th grader Kartik Kumar and 8th grader Amish painted smaller butterflies, each stroke adding personal meaning to the shared masterpiece. 

A Lasting Impact 

Principal Kumar noted that beyond beautifying the school, the project cultivated a sense of responsibility among students. Many had become more mindful of cleanliness, regular attendance, and respect for their families—changes that extended beyond the classroom into their daily lives. 

As the project concluded, students presented fragrant roses as tokens of appreciation, embracing volunteers with warm farewells and heartfelt words of gratitude. The colorful walls, now alive with messages of encouragement, stand as a lasting reminder of the students’ potential and the power of collective effort.