Shree Sayaji High School

Shri Sayaji High School was established on November 1, 1906. It proudly celebrates 115 years of a glorious and successful history. At the time of its founding, Vadodara had only one government secondary school. To enhance educational opportunities and reduce the government’s burden, a new school was initiated under a directive from the Baroda State Council, dated June 25, 1906, and the Minister of Education’s circular No. 1973, dated July 12, 1906.

Initial Set-Up

The school was founded by Shri Hirabhai Jethabhai Majmudar from Petlad, and was originally named the “Grant in Aid High School.” It began its operations in a private residence near Nyay Mandir, on the site of Sadhana Talkies. However, a devastating fire destroyed this building, along with its furnishings and books, valued at approximately Rs 5000. This loss was a major setback, but with the support and encouragement of his friend and the then Principal, Shri Hirabhai V. Shroff, the school was revived.

Rebuilding and Relocation

After the fire, Hirabhai Jethabhai Majmudar, with the help of his friend Shri Hirabhai Shroff, found a new location in an old government tankshala (mint) in Ghadiyali Pol. The building was rented after convincing the authorities and was officially handed over to the school for a token rent. From June 1908, the school operated from this new location. It was renamed “Shri Sayaji High School” in honor of the esteemed Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III.

Institutional Growth and Recognition

In 1915, Shri Lalbhai Kalyanbhai, a well-known Raj Zaveri, took charge of the school. The formal establishment of the “Jummedar Mandal” on December 6, 1916, marked the beginning of structured administration. Under the leadership of the distinguished Shri Lalbhai Jethalal Majmudar, the Mandal took over the school’s management.

Development and Expansion

Situated in Vadodara’s Ghadiyali Pol area, the school was highly beneficial for educational purposes. Hirabhai negotiated with the engineering department to adapt the tankshala (mint) building for school use. Between 1934 and 1940, there were multiple attempts to reclaim the property, but with support from the Naib Diwan and Diwan Sir V.T. Krishnamachari, the buildings remained with the institution. As the student population grew, additional buildings were rented in Desai Sheri and Mehta Pol to accommodate the increasing number of students.

Management and Expansion

In 1918, the Jummedar Mandal reviewed the school’s financial and educational status and appointed Shri Hirabhai Shroff (H.V. Shroff) as Principal. Under his leadership, the school flourished until his passing in 1930.

Modernization and New Facilities

In 1951, the “Shri Sayaji Girls High School” was established to provide education specifically for girls, operating under the same trust. In 1955 CE, Trustee Shri Janubhai Parikh, Haribhai Desai, and Dr. Thakorbhai Patel (former Health Minister) initiated the construction of a new primary school building at “Prabhu Kashini Wadi,” addressing the growing need for educational facilities.

By June 1984 CE, the school began classes for the Balwadi section and grades 1 through 7.

Notable Alumni and Contributions

Shri Sayaji High School has produced numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields:

Dr. Indraprasad Gordhanbhai Patel: Served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) from 1977 to 1982. He received honorary degrees from international universities and was awarded the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India.

Dharmiklal Pandya: A celebrated storyteller, poet, and musician known for presenting ancient Indian narratives and receiving recognition from the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi.

Dr. Jatinbhai V. Modi: A renowned dermatologist, former Mayor of Vadodara Municipal Corporation, and active in various social organizations.

Legacy and Impact

Shri Sayaji High School continues to be a beacon of education, impacting Vadodara, Gujarat, and the nation by producing successful professionals, including doctors, lawyers, educators, economists, and ICS officers. The institution’s legacy is reflected in its numerous alumni who have achieved notable positions and made significant contributions to society.