Teacher revives art of letter writing, connecting students across continents | Fusion - WeRIndia

In an age dominated by instant messages, WhatsApp chats, and emails, a teacher at Ilavaram Zilla Parishad School is embarking on a unique journey.

It is aimed to resurrect the tradition of letter writing among students, fostering global connections and improving their written English skills.

Over the past four years, this initiative has blossomed into a heartwarming exercise, linking students from Bapatla district in India with their peers at Regan Public School in Nebraska, USA.

Harikrishna Patcharu, the English teacher behind the program, shared that what initially began as an effort to enhance students’ language proficiency has evolved into an integral part of their routine.

These students eagerly anticipate letters from their pen pals, crafting correspondence that touches on their daily lives, festivals etc.

Through this exchange, they gain insights into the diverse cultures of their American counterparts, turning each letter into a treasure trove of learning.

Many students described how this unconventional approach has allowed them to connect with an unfamiliar individual across the globe.

Remarkably, this program isn’t limited to letter writing alone. Students engage in Skype interactions with peers from over 300 schools across 60 countries.

They discuss numerous topics ranging from the English language to space science and social studies.

This broadening of horizons extends even further as they interact with esteemed figures like Programme Scientist Henry Throop from NASA and Swiss physicist Claire Lee.

With expenses amounting to Rs 25,000-Rs 30,000 each year to send letters between Bapatla and Nebraska, Harikrishna emphasized that the value of this experience far outweighs the cost.

He skillfully utilizes Facebook to connect with teachers globally, fostering a network that transcends borders and time zones.

Harikrishna’s motivation stems from his belief in the critical role communication plays in the survival and advancement of today’s generation.

His efforts to reintroduce the pen pal program are a testament to his commitment to equipping students in government schools with equal opportunities for skill development.

The transformation he has witnessed among his students, as they grow more confident and adept at expressing themselves, fills him with pride and satisfaction.

In a world driven by technology, this initiative serves as a heartening reminder of the enduring power of handwritten words and the connections they can forge.

The students are not merely learning the art of letter writing; they are creating bridges that span continents, languages, and cultures.

Besides, they are enriching their lives and nurturing friendships that transcend boundaries.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/601974