Students in the literacy class in Mo village, Chieng Khuong commune, Song Ma district. Photo: Song Ma

At 7 PM, even during mealtime after a hard day working in the fields, the lights of flashlights and motorbikes still flickered towards the classroom at Chiềng Xôm school, Chiềng Cang commune, Sông Mã district. This literacy class has 90 students, all of whom are from the Thái ethnic group.

In the class, the oldest student was 60, the youngest was nearly 20, and some were even grandparents, but this was the first time they had ever learned to read and write.

Over a period of more than 7 months, trainees will be taught basic skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and some basic arithmetic based on the elementary school curriculum.

The teaching staff here not only have teaching experience but also understand local customs and traditions, speak the ethnic languages, and are always enthusiastic and responsible in their work. Their dedication helps students overcome their initial shyness, thereby opening their hearts to knowledge.

Ms. Tong Thi Phieu, from Chieng Xom village, shared: "Initially, I was quite hesitant to go to school because of my age, but learning to read and write made me happy. Knowing how to read and write helps me become more confident and knowledgeable, which can improve my life."

For Ms. Phieu and many other students, learning to read and write is a path to expanding their knowledge and integrating into the community; it is the first step towards becoming literate, able to write, and perform basic arithmetic to serve their lives.

Ms. Ca Thi Kien, also from Chieng Xom village, was enthusiastic about what she learned: “Now many people in the village know how to read and write, and if I don't know how to read and write, I'll be very behind. Knowing how to read and write, I can sell Northwest specialties on Facebook to earn extra income.” For Ms. Kien, learning to read and write is not only a way to develop herself but also an opportunity to develop the economy and help her family earn more income.

Opening ceremony of the literacy class in Chiềng Cang commune, Sông Mã district. Photo: Sông Mã

Mr. Leo Van Duyen, a teacher at Chieng Cang Primary School and the instructor of the class, shared: “Initially, due to shyness and self-doubt, the villagers were hesitant to attend the class. Gradually, they encouraged each other, and after being exposed to literacy, they became very enthusiastic, and the class grew larger. We always encouraged them and provided the easiest knowledge for them to get acquainted with.”

It was Mr. Duyen's perseverance and understanding that helped to strengthen the bond in the class and instill confidence in the villagers on their journey to literacy.

The class not only provides knowledge but also fosters community. Each session is an opportunity for everyone to share and help each other. Everyday stories and business experiences are enthusiastically exchanged, creating an exciting learning atmosphere.

Literacy classes in the Song Ma border region are not only places for imparting knowledge and helping people become more knowledgeable, but also open up new opportunities, igniting the determination of people to overcome difficulties, master literacy, gradually improve their quality of life, and contribute to poverty reduction.

This is a slow but meaningful journey, helping to infiltrate and take root culture and knowledge in the remotest corners of the country, where every letter and every number carries so many dreams and beliefs.

Source: thanhtra.com.vn