RIS Class of 1997: Continuing the Legacy of Giving with "Water for Life"
Dr. Mahapatra and his classmates are now embarking on their fifth project, scheduled to open in 2025. Their work continues to exemplify the lessons they learned at RIS, where giving of one’s self to others—within the community and beyond—is a fundamental element of character development. Service learning is the backbone of RIS’ mission and its culture. Across every section of RIS, service is embedded in curricular and co-curricular activities. Service activities are based on several components, including how the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals are met. Through this focus on service, students are encouraged to be open-minded and effective communicators who embrace diversity.
“These plants are open to not only the families of the schools but also to villagers from all surrounding villages, enabling them to afford a basic commodity, free of charge,” says Dr. Mahapatra. “While the first project was contributed to by all class members, the current pool of donors consists of a core group within our class.”
Since the first plant was built in 2018 in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, the Class of 1997 has steadily expanded their impact. Four water purification plants are now in operation, each serving not only the schools but also surrounding villages. These projects provide free access to a basic necessity, significantly improving the quality of life in these communities.
“Water for Life” is more than a project—it is a legacy of gratitude and a call to action. As Dr. Mahapatra shared, “We find no better way to celebrate the precious education we received at RIS than by serving schools in rural Thailand.”
Stay tuned for updates and pictures from their fifth project in 2025. The Class of 1997 invites the RIS community to join in celebrating their remarkable efforts and ongoing commitment to service. Those interested in contributing to future projects are encouraged to reach out for more information.
Learn more about the history of “Water for Life” in our previous feature: RIS Class of 1997: Water for Life.
