Help create a Billion Literates

Naveena B & Seema: A teacher’s Intuition

Naveena found herself deeply concerned as she observed Seema, a fourth-grade student in
her classroom, grappling with the challenges of reading. Basic letters eluded Seema, and
reading words seemed an insurmountable task. Struggling to articulate sentences, Seema
withdrew into her own world, her desk a haven of solitude. Participation was a rare
occurrence, and enthusiasm was a distant echo. Unyielding in her commitment, Ashwini
refused to surrender to despair.

Pooling her concerns with her mentor, Sunadini, Naveena embarked on a journey of
innovative teaching strategies. For the next six months, she dedicated herself tirelessly to
infusing phonics and flashcards into her teaching methods. Transformative games found
their way into the classroom, all designed to centre Seema's active involvement.
Recognizing Seema's affinity for flashcards, Naveena extended her efforts beyond class
hours, employing these visual aids to build words, enhance letter recognition, and refine
pronunciation.

The additional effort bore fruit when Seema began navigating lesson plans with newfound
comprehension. The journey was not without its challenges, but the transformation in the
young girl was nothing short of remarkable. Gradually, Seema raised her hand, embracing
the courage to contribute answers. The once-silent notebook now echoed with Seema's
emerging thoughts. A subtle yet profound shift occurred in Seema's demeanour – an
engagement and attentiveness that spoke volumes.

In narratives of change and impact, we often gravitate toward grand tales of monumental
achievements. At OBLF, however, our impact lies in the ordinary – the everyday endeavors
within the classroom. It manifests in the thoughtful actions, sustained commitment, and
enduring engagement of our teachers over time. Isn't there a profound beauty in these
small victories?