About

HISTORY OF MSFS

SFS School, Malur, is an MSFS legacy in education. Education has always been at the centre of the Church’s mission, with various congregations and religious societies devoting their lives to the training of young minds in order to build a just and compassionate society. Among these pioneers, the Missionaries of St Francis de Sales (MSFS) occupy a pre-eminent position.

Founded in 1838 in Annecy, France, by Fr Peter Marie Mermier, the MSFS Congregation has consistently responded to the educational needs of the times. When the first MSFS missionaries arrived in India in 1848, they brought with them not only the message of faith and service but also a transformative commitment to the cause of education. From their earliest days in India, the Fathers envisioned education as a powerful means of uplifting communities – especially the underprivileged – by nurturing values, fostering excellence, and empowering individuals to lead purposeful lives.

Initially confined to South India, the MSFS rapidly expanded their operations and established their educational footprint. Their institutions soon began to dot the landscapes of north and east India as well, establishing schools, technical institutes, and formation centres that have shaped the lives of countless students across the nation. Today, the MSFS Fathers operate over 150 educational institutions within India which are recognized and valued for their quality, inclusiveness, and value-based approach.

Driven by their motto “Education for Transformation”, all MSFS schools strive to go beyond academics, instilling in students a deep sense of social responsibility, moral integrity, and a passion for lifelong learning. This vibrant tradition continues to expand, marked by innovation, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to holistic human development.

SFS School, Malur, a New Milestone

As part of its continuing mission to serve emerging communities and to extend the reach of quality education, the MSFS Fathers have taken a significant step by establishing a new school at Malur, a bourgeoning suburb located near Bengaluru, Karnataka.

SFS School officially opened its doors to the general public in June 2024, marking a milestone in the educational development of the region. This institution is more than a school – it is a symbol of hope, transformation, and forward-thinking vision. Built to cater to the needs of a dynamic and rapidly expanding community, SFS School brings with it the long-standing legacy and values of the MSFS educational tradition.

Designed for Gen Z

Lying beside the Malur-Kolar Road, just 750 meters from the town centre, the school enjoys excellent accessibility while maintaining a serene and conducive environment for academic pursuits. The masterplan, thoughtfully conceptualized by well-known architect Martin Njavalli, reflects the MSFS commitment to excellence, functionality, and student-centric design.

The campus has been envisioned as a modern centre for learning, with spacious classrooms, safe and child-friendly infrastructure, advanced learning resources, and facilities that promote academic, creative, and athletic development. As the school grows, additional features such as science and computer labs, a library, sports complexes, and digital classrooms are set to be introduced.

Currently, SFS School offers education from pre-nursery to Grade VIII, with plans to expand to Grade XII in the coming years. From the outset, the institution has attracted an enthusiastic response from the community, with an impressive initial enrolment of 755 students, supported by 43 dedicated teachers and 15 non-teaching staff. This early momentum reflects the intrinsic trust the local community places in the MSFS educational vision.

A Mission Rooted in Values and Excellence

SFS School is much more than about academic learning; it’s about nurturing the whole person. Guided by the Fransalian philosophy of education, the school is committed to:

• Academic Excellence: Through a well-structured CBSE curriculum delivered by experienced and passionate educators.
• Character Formation: Emphasizing values such as integrity, compassion, respect, and service.​
• Inclusive Growth: Creating a learning space that is welcoming to students from diverse social, cultural, and economic backgrounds.​
• Community Engagement: Encouraging students to be active participants in the life and welfare of their local community.​
• Spiritual and Moral Development: Inspired by the life and teachings of St Francis de Sales, the school promotes an environment of kindness, humility, and faith.

A Vision for Generations to Come

The momentous journey of SFS School has just begun, but its vision stretches far into the distant future. It is envisioned as a centre of excellence, producing not only academically successful students but also responsible, compassionate citizens who will contribute meaningfully to society.

The MSFS Fathers, in collaboration with local stakeholders, parents, and educators, are dedicated to building a school that generations of families in Malur and beyond can take pride in. With every new batch of students, SFS School will continue to grow as a living testament to the power of education and the enduring legacy of the MSFS mission.