Day 5 & 6 - Reflections

Experience
We visited Neerja Mordi School. After the introduction of the school, we were invited to interact with the students in their classes. Their classroom environment was different as their classrooms were sparsely equipped with wooden chairs and tables. This is unlike a Singapore classroom where we were equipped with plastic chairs and tables and IT stuffs such such a projector and visualizer. At first, we were shy to interact with them but we slowly warmed up to them as we got to know each other better. We exchanged information about our country and culture. We also exchanged email addresses and facebook to keep in touch. We had bonded and created friendship with them.

Neerja Mordi School

The Vice Principal presenting the school to us

Interaction with the students

Next up, Values In Actions (VIA). We went to the Nishay School for the underprivileged girls. What greeted us was open room where students will sit on the floor and attend classes. We were shocked initially. After the principal explained the reason behind this building, we realized that it is good for the students too. The program is to allow underprivileged girls an opportunity to get an education as the culture in India still have an bias over boys. But the school do not want the girls to be spoilt, thus giving them the basic amenities for education.

 

 

Nishay School

We had an interactive them with them teaching them origami and balloon sculpting.  They paid attention and were eager to learn from us. We had a great and fulfilling time teaching them. As we were leaving, we passed a bag of stationary for the students, hoping that this will help them in their education.

Origami

Balloon Sculpting

After the school visit, we went on a cultural tour of Jaipur. We were impressed by the technology of the past which is still applicable to the present. We also went to the palaces such as Amer Fort and Lake Palace to have a feel of the rich architecture and culture which went behind the building of this monuments. We were awed by them.

Hawa Mahal

Sundial

Mdm Thila posing at City Palace

Amer Fort

Lake Palace

Albert Park

 

 

 

 

 

 Next, we went for shopping along the streets of Jaipur. It was a great experience as we got to shop for clothings and accessories. It was a great experience and we love bargaining! Now we understand why people say that shopping is the favorite pastime of Singaporeans.

After shopping, we went to Choki Dhani Village for a traditional Rajasthan dinner. It was an eye-opener as the plates and bowls were made of leaves. The food was unique and very spicy but we were not used to the food. It was definitely challenging for us.

Teachers @ Dinner

The next day, we embarked on yet another arduous bus ride back to Delhi. During the journey, most of us were catching up with our beauty sleep and chatting with others. Surprisingly, it was a good experience as we got to spend quality time with each other. This improve our bonding as a team which will help us in months to come.

Performance
We were co-operative and able to adapt to the tight schedule. We worked together in tight situations such as the origami and balloon sculpting to get things done. We were also more confident in interacting with students and teachers alike. We became not self-centred and put others before us. Slowly but surely, we are growing as leaders.

Learning Points
We learnt to be more appreciative of Singapore and our educational facilities. We gained insight into the history of India and learnt to appreciate diverse cultures.