Journal Entry: Those Who Love, They Teach

Introduction:

In the realm of education, amidst the chaos of political agendas and societal demands, there exists a silent force, often overlooked and underestimated – the teachers. They are the ones who illuminate the path of knowledge, shaping the minds and futures of generations to come. Yet, their dedication and sacrifices often go unnoticed, overshadowed by the political hurdles and bureaucratic red tape that plague the education system. In this journal entry, I delve into the intricate web of challenges faced by educators, particularly in the context of Bhutan, where promises are made and broken, and where the welfare of teachers and students hangs precariously in the balance.

Reflective Journal on CL4STEM TOT Workshop: Empowering Secondary School STEM Educators

Day 2: February 27, 2024

The second day of the CL4STEM TOT Workshop continued to offer a wealth of insights and practical strategies aimed at empowering secondary school STEM educators. As we delved deeper into innovative pedagogical approaches and explored the integration of technology in teaching, the workshop provided a platform for reflection, collaboration, and professional growth.

Session 1: Reflective Teaching with Technology

Dr. Reeta Rai commenced the day with a thought-provoking session on Reflective Teaching with Technology (RTICT). Through interactive discussions and practical demonstrations, Dr. Rai highlighted the importance of leveraging technology to enhance teaching practices and promote reflective pedagogy. As educators, we were encouraged to embrace digital tools and platforms that facilitate active learning, student engagement, and formative assessment. The session underscored the transformative potential of technology in education and motivated us to explore innovative ways of integrating technology into our teaching repertoire.

Reflective Journal on CL4STEM TOT Workshop: Empowering Secondary School STEM Educators

Introduction

The CL4STEM TOT Workshop organized by Samtse College of Education in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Skills Development marked a significant endeavor to empower secondary school STEM educators in Bhutan. As one of the selected participants in the Thimphu Cluster, I embarked on a transformative journey aimed at enhancing my teaching practices and integrating innovative approaches into the curriculum. This reflective journal serves as a platform to document my experiences, insights, and key learnings from the workshop.

Commencing the Academic Journey of 2024 at Babesa Higher Secondary School

 As the dawn of a new academic year graced the corridors of Babesa Higher Secondary School, the air buzzed with anticipation and excitement. The fervor of new beginnings was palpable, echoing through the halls as faculty alike prepared to embark on yet another enriching journey of knowledge and growth.

The day commenced with a warm welcome note delivered by the esteemed principal, whose words resonated with optimism and encouragement. The principal extended heartfelt greetings to both returning faculty and newcomers, emphasizing the school's commitment to nurturing academic excellence and holistic development.

A highlight of the morning's proceedings was the ceremonious welcoming of new teachers with traditional Khadars. This time-honored gesture symbolized not only a gesture of hospitality but also a deep-rooted respect for the incoming educators, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping the minds of Babesa HSS.

Journal Entry: The Last Day of the ITEC Program - December 12, 2023

December 12, 2023

Today marked the culmination of a month-long journey that transcended borders and cultures. The ITEC program, a collaborative effort to enhance knowledge and foster international cooperation, came to an end on this momentous 12th of December, 2023. The air was charged with a mix of excitement and nostalgia as we gathered for the final day's activities.

The day began in the early hours, under the supervision of the esteemed Professor Dr. KSA Dinesh. We were handed forms, a routine but necessary formality for the ITEC program, along with feedback forms that would serve as a testament to our experiences and the effectiveness of the program. These bureaucratic rituals were but a prelude to the main event - the Valedictory Function.

Journal Entry - December 11, 2023 - Back to NITTTR campus

December 11, 2023

The day unfolded with a subtle charm, offering a well-deserved respite for the participants of the NITTTR program. The morning session was declared a moment of reprieve, acknowledging the Hattic journey that had captivated our attention the day before. The echoes of that cultural expedition lingered in the air, prompting some of us to seize the opportunity and explore the vibrant streets of Chennai.

Saravana Stores, a bustling shopping emporium, became the epicenter of our retail therapy. Nestled in the heart of the city, this retail giant is not merely a shopping destination; it is a cultural phenomenon that has evolved over the years. Established in 1969, Saravana Stores has grown from a humble textile showroom to a sprawling retail conglomerate, encompassing diverse segments such as clothing, electronics, and household items. The store's success is deeply rooted in its commitment to providing quality products at reasonable prices, making it a favored haunt for locals and tourists alike.

Journal Entry - December 9th-10th, 2023

 December 9th, 2023

Today marked an exciting chapter in our journey at the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR). On the 9th of December 2023, participants were treated to a delightful day of sightseeing, exploring the cultural and historical gems of Mysuru.

Our adventure commenced with a visit to the renowned Mysuru Zoo, officially known as the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens. Nestled in the heart of Mysuru, this zoo has a rich history dating back to 1892 when it was established by the then Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar. Covering an expansive area of 157 acres, the zoo is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including exotic species from around the globe.

Journal Entry: December 5-8, 2023 - Cyclone

In the aftermath of the cyclone that hit on December 5, 2023, our guest house became a refuge but also a challenge. The torrential rainwater flooded the premises, rising to a daunting 2 meters. With power cut off from the evening of the first day, we found ourselves steamed under the relentless heat, our usual comforts stripped away. In these challenging times, Mr. Shankar, the caretaker of the guest house, and the dedicated cooks worked tirelessly to serve us meals, offering a glimmer of solace for which we were profoundly grateful.

The second day dawned, but the water showed no signs of receding. Undeterred, we continued our survival routine, finding strength in unity and the generosity of those around us. As the day unfolded, we remained resilient, grappling with uncertainty. The unwavering commitment of Mr. Shankar and the kitchen staff played a pivotal role in keeping our spirits high amid the challenging conditions.

Journal Entry - Cyclone MICHAUNG

Journal Entry - 04/12/2023

Today marked an unexpected turn of events as the Government of Tamil Nadu, through G.O. Ms.No.751 dt., declared a public holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act 1881. The reason behind this unusual declaration was the looming threat of Cyclonic Storm 'MICHAUNG.' The storm, a formidable force of nature, had prompted authorities to take swift action in ensuring the safety of the public.

In line with the government's directive, the Director of the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR) in Chennai promptly announced the closure of the institute for the day, acknowledging the severity of the situation. This decision aimed to prevent unnecessary risks and potential harm to the students and staff.

The term 'Michaung,' proposed by Myanmar, symbolises strength and resilience. The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) is responsible for managing the rotating name lists assigned to each tropical cyclone basin.

The cyclonic storm 'Michaung' is active and likely to intensify further over the Bay of Bengal into a severe cyclonic storm.

Journal Entry - Saravana Stores

Journal Entry - 03/12/2023

Today marked a delightful continuation of our routine shopping adventures with our Myanmar friends. The camaraderie and excitement of exploring the vibrant markets of Chennai once again filled the air as we embarked on another memorable outing. The day unfolded with a ride that came to define convenience and efficiency - an Uber journey to the renowned Saravana Stores near T-Nagar.

This iconic shopping complex stood tall, spanning from the ground floor to the eighth, promising a plethora of shopping opportunities for eager shoppers like us. As we entered, the bustling atmosphere and the myriad of shops beckoned, each one showcasing an array of products catering to diverse tastes and preferences.