My Last day in Dai Loc Center

Jennifer, Therese and I, thought to do something different for our English class today in Dai Loc Center. We brought all our students together in one classroom and started teaching them Phonics.

Therese began teaching them sounds for English alphabets. I must say, she was simply amazing throughout the class. The reason why we thought to teach them Phonics was to help them pronounce English alphabets properly. Our students were so excited to learn this new topic and the way Therese was teaching them, they were really enjoying the lesson and I’m sure this helped them learn quite a lot. They were learning and having fun at the same time, and I believe, they must have never enjoyed their class like they did today. 

Vietnam is developing and amidst its international exposure, the knowledge of English language has become very vital here. It’s been my third week in Vietnam and I have observed that very few Vietnamese speak good English. One of the reasons that might be hindering their English fluency is their Vietnamese accent which makes them difficult to pronounce some English letters like S, T, H an F. But that has never frustrated students here. They are so keen to learn and they always give their 100% in every effort. 

Being a citizen of Nepal, I understand this situation quite well. English is not a native language in my country either. I consider myself blessed to have wonderful parents who sent me to an English medium school as a result of which I am being able to teach English here and help these kids learn.

However, I strongly believe that fluency in English language doesn’t reflect person’s knowledge. Whatever language you speak, all it matters is your honesty, faith and dedication to conquer your goals. Language is just a medium to express the knowledge. 

After half an hour, when the exciting Phonic class was over, Therese said “Come on children! Today is the last day for your Jyoti Teacher here…” and an instant ‘date and days’ calculation ran over my mind. Only then I realized that it was my final day in Dia Loc Centre; and I’m seeing these children here for the last time. 

I can’t explain feelings that passed through my heart; all these days, I’ve developed a special bond with these adorable kids; the way they learn, they have also helped me to learn many things. Before I could cheer up myself or those children, all the kids came close to me to pose for a farewell picture.

I know that very soon when my volunteering placement ends, I would have to prepare myself to get away, but I always hate to say ‘Good bye’ and I wish I could always be here with these loving children to help them learn; to bring a sweet smile on their face.