26-07-2025
Teachers reclaim roots
TDT | Manama
Malayalam language teachers in Bahrain are shifting from rote instruction to a more grounded, identity-driven approach that blends indigenous art and storytelling with formal curriculum.
The Malayalam Mission Bahrain Chapter and Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam Malayalam Paathashaala jointly held a teacher training camp titled 'Verarivu Nerarivu' (Rooted Knowledge, Direct Understanding), encouraging educators to incorporate local wisdom and cultural expressions into their teaching.
Folk-powered pedagogy
The training was led by Udayan Kundamkuzhi, a respected theatre and folk art practitioner, and recipient of the Kerala Folklore Academy's Youth Talent Award. Serving as a Malayalam Mission resource person, he told participants that folk songs and indigenous practices are not just entertainment but essential educational tools.
He said including these elements in the curriculum can significantly increase students' interest in learning while nurturing social awareness and cultural identity.
Wider reach
More than 50 teachers from Malayalam Mission-affiliated centres in Bahrain attended the camp. Participants came from Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam, Pratibha, Pravasi Guidance Forum, Gurudeva Social Society, Muharraq Malayali Samajam, and Unity Bahrain.
The session began with a tribute to the late V.S. Achuthanandan, Kerala's former Chief Minister and the founding chairman of the Malayalam Mission. It was formally inaugurated by Vinayachandran R. Nair, Secretary of the Samajam Literary Wing, with greetings shared by Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam President P.V. Radhakrishna Pillai and General Secretary Varghese Karaykkal.
Training with purpose Chapter Secretary Biju M. Satheesh coordinated the programme, while Chapter Coordinator Rajitha Ani delivered the vote of thanks. The camp concluded with expressions of appreciation from organisers and participants.
