On December 16, 2013 the AAGAZ
Community Learning Centre in Jaipur introduced English lessons to its
curriculum. Mr. Veerbhan Singh, age 28, teaches these lessons Monday-Saturday
from 12-1pm. Lessons are conducted on a wide range of subjects, including how
to tell the time, colors, how to introduce yourself and many others. Mr. Singh
is of the view that “English is necessary for everyone”. He states that “if one
is to grow” the two most important skills to have are knowledge of the computer
and of course, English. Mr. Singh believes so strongly in his mission to
educate the students in English that he volunteers not only his time but also
remarkably conducts all lessons free of charge. Currently, there are ten
students in the English class who range in age from 17 to 40. When asked why
they were interested in learning English, Shifa, age 19, answered that “English
is important because it is used everywhere” while Javed, age 18, wished to
learn English because he wants to “talk to foreigners” and therefore will “learn
many different languages”. The most difficult aspect about learning the
language for these students was conversational or spoken English. The students
usually understood what was being said to them but have found it hard to reply
back. Mr. Singh believes that one should not be shy and afraid of making
mistakes. Making mistakes is how one learns and if one does not speak out they
will never get any better. Another suggestion from Mr. Singh was to practice
daily in front of a mirror so that one could gain confidence and practice their
pronunciation. Normally the students are given assignments every day to better
their English. Assignments may be in the form of essay writing, question and
answer exercises or memorizing 10-15 English verbs daily. The program is
intensive and challenging but the students seem to love the class. While the
class has only held lessons for 15 days, it is expected to be a 3-month
program.
