Hiriyur, Karnataka, Aug 13: Taking a significant step towards expanding educational opportunities and bridging the digital divide in rural communities, the ‘Dr. Bommanahalli Babanna Digital Library’ was inaugurated in Kasturi Rangappanahalli village of Hiriyur taluk. Developed at an investment of approximately ₹5 lakh, the facility is equipped with computers, a projector and internet connectivity. It will provide students and young people with a dedicated space to access educational content, online learning platforms and essential digital services. The initiative addresses a key challenge faced by students in rural areas: limited access to technology and learning resources. The centre will allow them to attend digital learning sessions, access study material and prepare for government recruitment and other competitive examinations without travelling to larger towns for basic digital infrastructure.
To ensure that students receive meaningful support, a dedicated teacher has also been appointed at the facility. The teacher will guide them in using online resources effectively and assist them with their education and examination preparation. This will help the centre function as a structured learning environment rather than merely a computer facility. The library will also support residents seeking access to important online information and public services, helping improve digital awareness and inclusion across the village. Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Bommanahalli Babu said, “I am immensely happy to inaugurate the Dr. Bommanahalli Babanna Digital Library in Kasturi Rangappanahalli.
This facility will support students in gaining knowledge, accessing digital education and preparing for competitive examinations. The provision of a dedicated teacher will further improve the quality of learning and ensure that students receive the guidance they need.” Highlighting his broader vision for rural education, he added, “A student’s opportunities should not be determined by whether they live in a city or a village. My aim is to establish similar technology-enabled libraries in every village across Hiriyur taluk and create a brighter future for students in rural communities.”
The Kasturi Rangappanahalli facility marks the beginning of a larger effort to build accessible learning spaces across Hiriyur. By bringing together technology, education and mentorship at the village level, the initiative seeks to equip rural students with the knowledge and skills required to pursue better educational and career opportunities.