Gibbs High School, Kumta

Gibbs High School, Kumta, is one of the oldest high schools in Uttar Kannada district. This was established on4th June 1908. This is the full-fledged first private high school of this District and was initially named as “New English School”, Kumta to distinguish it from existing Kumta municipal A.V.School.

Some visionaries made a drive and collected funds for the buildings, furniture and other basic needs of the school. As a measure of permanent organization, the pioneers founded “The Kanara Education Society, Kumta” on fully democratic setup and registered it in 1915.A fine private bungalow owned by the Late John Smith Chrystal, A Scottish Cotton Merchant was donated to this school as a memorable gift.

The school was renamed as “GIBB HIGH SCHOOL” as a token of deep gratitude to Mr. M.C.Gibb, the then Commissioner of Southern Division for his help in getting recognition and bringing this school under Grant-in-Aid in 1911. A hostel for the pupils was constructed accommodating 100 students called "Pandit Hostel". The need of a Hall-cum-Auditorium was met by construction of “Dhempe Hall”.The high school grew very fast, attracting students from neighbouring Talukas of the Districts by its grand results, good discipline and high tone of education and hostel facility. The strength of the students rose very high in forties.

To commemorate the successful completion of 50 springs of the school, the ‘GOLDEN JUBILEE’ was celebrated in 1959. The function was celebrated under the presidency of Dr.Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India. tomark this Golden Jubilee Celebration, an auditorium was constructed in the name of Dr Rajendra Prasad.

Even today the High school is a premier institute in imparting education on thousands of young men and women.

The former headmasters

Notable students