Teacher’s Inspiring Innovation

Moturi Mangarani, a primary school teacher from a humble background in Andhra Pradesh, India, has transformed the landscape of primary education through innovation and unwavering dedication. Born in Murari village, she overcame challenging circumstances, fueled by her parents’ dream of her becoming a teacher. After earning a BSc in Computers and a BEd, she began teaching in 2010, eventually becoming the headmistress of Sri Nagaraja Municipal Primary School in Rajahmundry.

Recognizing the need for engaging and accessible learning materials, Mangarani began creating animated videos and innovative teaching-learning materials (TLMs) in 2012. What started as a classroom experiment quickly evolved into a significant educational initiative when she uploaded her videos to YouTube. The overwhelming response, with teachers from India and beyond incorporating her resources into their classrooms, catapulted her to international recognition. Her YouTube channel currently boasts over 229,000 subscribers and 80 million views, reaching audiences in nearly 100 countries. Responding to demand, she even created content specifically for Telangana, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Karnataka.

This remarkable success has garnered Mangarani numerous accolades, including the Savitribai Phule Award in Telangana, the Women Empowerment Award from Adikavi Nannaya University (AKNU), and Best Teacher Awards from both the Andhra Pradesh and Central governments. Her work has also earned recognition from Lions Clubs and other organizations. Her innovative approach even caught the attention of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who publicly praised her efforts. Inspired by her dedication, an NRI donor provided a projector for her classroom, and another donated books worth Rs 40,000 for the school library.

Mangarani’s impact extends beyond her online presence. The SCERT (State Council of Educational Research and Training) enlisted her to design textbooks for Grades 1 and 4 in English. She has also contributed to teacher training modules, UNICEF publications, and adult education books, demonstrating her versatility in educational content creation. As a state-level resource person, she has trained over 1,200 teachers in digital content creation.

Her teaching methodology emphasizes “learning through play,” utilizing diverse tools such as puppetry and augmented reality to make learning both fun and effective. She has also developed digital games and puzzles to promote a love for the Telugu language. Beyond the classroom, she has initiated projects like a Nutri Garden and a classroom library, and actively involves parents in the learning process, setting a new standard for inclusive education. Currently, she is refining her skills in advanced animation techniques to further enhance her online lessons.

Mangarani’s story is an inspiring example of how creativity, perseverance, and a dedication to innovation can transform education, reaching students and educators across the globe. It underscores the power of a single individual to make a significant difference in the lives of countless children.