Pedalling Change: Visakhapatnam Teacher’s Loudspeaker Campaign Wins Hearts

In an era where social media drives most outreach efforts, a primary school teacher from Gopalapatnam is turning heads with his refreshingly grassroots campaign — riding a two-wheeler through city lanes, loudspeaker in tow, spreading the word about public education.

Metta Mohan Rao, a committed teacher at Mandal Parishad Primary (MPP) School in Lakshmi Nagar, has become a familiar voice in the 91st ward of the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC). His mission: boosting enrolment through awareness — not algorithms.

“Government schools today offer quality on par with private institutions,” Rao says. “The gap lies in perception, not performance.” Unlike promotional efforts in corporate schools, Rao’s campaign is voluntary — driven by a sense of duty rather than deadlines.

From early mornings, his vehicle broadcasts messages highlighting the school’s strengths — airy classrooms, clean restrooms, dedicated staff, and a safe, hygienic campus. Cultural events like Independence Day, Sri Rama Navami and Ganesh Chaturthi also feature in his announcements, underlining the school’s role in imparting moral and cultural values.

“Parents need to know these schools nurture more than just academics,” he says, also promoting government schemes like free school kits and mid-day meals — a crucial support for low-income families. Rao’s passion isn’t new. While serving in Butchayyapeta, he voluntarily helped build a road to the school, citing it as “a matter of dignity” for students who otherwise struggled to access education.

His campaign is more than just awareness — it’s a personal crusade. “Teaching is a commitment to the community,” he says. “Every teacher can be an ambassador of change.” Residents have begun recognising both the message and the messenger. Many pause to hear him speak, some stop to chat — all touched by the sincerity of his effort. As Rao revs up his two-wheeler to continue his rounds, the sound of his loudspeaker echoes through the streets — a simple but powerful reminder that change, sometimes, rides on two wheels.