By Chun-Liang Chiu and Yuan-Chen Hu
On March 6, Tzu Chi volunteers arrived at the Ganga Bigha tuition class straight from an earlier activity at Primary School Tikabigha. Teacher Upendra Kumar and three international volunteers hurried to ensure that no student was left waiting outside—a thoughtful act of care that set a warm tone for the day.
Life Lessons in Action
The day brought unexpected moments of responsibility and kindness. When regular helper Priyanshu Kumari was absent, another student, Simran Kumari, took the initiative to sweep the classroom on her own—a small but meaningful gesture that showcased the values taught at the class.
As more students arrived, they greeted their teachers respectfully and asked permission before entering—demonstrating the habits instilled by their mentors. Later during a math review, Priyanshu worked carefully to solve a problem on the board, her focus a testament to her growing confidence.
Meanwhile, one parent personally escorted her daughter to class, sharing that the family had been coping with her mother’s recent hospitalization. Struggling with her studies and overwhelmed by a test paper, the little girl burst into tears. Teacher Upendra offered reassurance, and volunteer Hui-Lee Cheok provided one-on-one guidance—teaching her to write numbers through simple exercises. In a heartwarming display of community, Priyanshu accompanied the girl home after class, encouraging her to keep returning.
A Visit to Priyanshu’s Home
Later that day, volunteers visited Priyanshu’s home and witnessed a bustling yet warm household. Her mother multitasked between cooking dinner and washing clothes, while her great-grandparents, grandparents, and siblings all shared the same home. Even Priyanshu’s hearing-impaired grandmother greeted the visitors with genuine enthusiasm.
A Journey of Transformation
Priyanshu opened up about the difficulties she once faced in school—how harsh teachers punished her for not knowing how to write, causing her to dread each day. Even though her parents intervened, and the teacher eventually changed, those memories lingered until the Ganga Bigha tuition class began near her home. With patient teachers, engaging lessons including Jing Si Aphorisms and sign language activities, her experience transformed. When asked about her future dreams, Priyanshu confidently declared, “I want to be a police officer,” expressing her desire to help her community combat issues like excessive drinking.
Seeds of Hope
Before parting ways, the volunteers had a heartfelt discussion with Priyanshu’s father about quitting alcohol—a change that could dramatically improve his family’s life. With Upendra translating, her father promised to try, an assurance that brought hope and a smile to Priyanshu’s face.
A Lasting Impact
The Ganga Bigha tuition class is far more than an academic space—it’s where children gain encouragement, build confidence, and dare to dream. Through compassionate teaching and volunteer support, each lesson nurtures seeds of change that promise to shape their lives and the future of their community.
