By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

In a commendable initiative aimed at broadening educational opportunities, DISHA Don Bosco, Kawant, has launched a special coaching-cum-camp programme for students aspiring to transition from Gujarati medium to English medium education.

DISHA Don Bosco currently operates 15 Village Education Programme (VEP) centres across the Kawant block in the Chhotaudepur district of Gujarat, catering to primary school children from Standards 1 to 5. Recognising the growing importance of English proficiency in higher education and future careers, the organisation designed this programme specifically for students studying in Standard 5.

From March to April 2026, selected students were invited to attend intensive weekend coaching sessions. Conducted over the course of nine weekends, the programme saw the regular participation of approximately 45 students. These sessions were carefully structured to strengthen the students’ foundational understanding of English while also assessing their aptitude, learning capacity, and readiness to adapt to an English medium environment.

The classes were led by Cl. Rax Menezes, with valuable assistance from Cl. Ankit Ganava. The overall programme was coordinated under the guidance of Fr Agnel Dias and Fr Mayank Parmar, whose leadership ensured both academic rigour and pastoral care. The dedicated staff of DISHA Don Bosco also played a crucial role in mobilising participation, ensuring that children from all VEP centres could benefit from this opportunity.

Throughout the sessions, emphasis was placed not only on language acquisition but also on building confidence, communication skills, and critical thinking. Interactive teaching methods and regular assessments enabled the educators to closely monitor each student’s progress. As a result, 25 students from Gujarati medium backgrounds have been selected to pursue their education in English medium schools from Standard 6. This milestone marks a significant step in their academic journey, opening doors to wider learning opportunities.

However, the initiative does not end with selection. The academic year ahead will serve as a crucial trial phase for these students. They will receive continued support through supplementary coaching in English and other core subjects. Their progress will be closely observed, with personalised attention provided to help them adapt successfully to the new medium of instruction.

The organisers have also adopted a pragmatic and student-centric approach. Should any student face persistent difficulties in coping with the demands of English medium education, provisions will be made to facilitate their transition back to Gujarati medium in Standard 7. This ensures that the well-being and academic stability of each child remain paramount.

This pioneering effort by DISHA Don Bosco highlights the institution’s commitment to inclusive and quality education. By equipping rural students with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in an English medium setting, the programme not only transforms individual lives but also contributes to the broader goal of educational equity.

The coaching-cum-camp stands as a model initiative, demonstrating how thoughtful intervention and dedicated mentorship can bridge educational gaps and empower young learners to realise their full potential.