The world of Tzu Chi December 2024 (Vol.152)

TZU CHI 152 05 Since its launch in January 2022, the “i·didik” online tutoring programme has been a beam of light, illuminating the paths of education for 500 children. Mobilising 1,179 volunteer shifts and 151 tutors, “i·didik” is not only a platform to impart knowledge but also allows every participating child, teacher, parent and volunteer to feel the power of love and education. “N gai Chee Ching achieved 9A’s in the 2023 SPM examination!” When the wonderful news spread in the “i·didik” chat group, Tzu Chi volunteers, teachers and peers sent their wishes and cheered for her achievement. Looking back on the past two years of guidance and support, volunteer Wo Soek Meng was moved to tears. Chee Ching came from a less advantaged family. Her 76-year- old father, living with diabetes, was unable to work, and her mother supports the family on a meagre income from factory-outsourced work. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and disrupted physical schooling in 2020, Chee Ching, who was in Form 3 then, struggled to adapt to virtual learning. Coupled with the interruption of out- of-school tuition, her enthusiasm for learning waned, and her academic performance suffered. In early 2022, Chee Ching enrolled in Tzu Chi’s “i·didik” online tutoring programme at volunteers’ invitation, becoming the earliest batch of students for English and Mathematics classes. Recognising her challenges with accessing virtual lessons on a mobile phone, volunteers thoughtfully provided her with a second- hand computer. Chee Ching appreciates the supportive and welcoming approach in the “i·didik” classes. For example, her English tutors would start lessons with warm greetings like, “Have you eaten?” This, plus the teachers’ tolerance for mistakes, created a relaxed atmosphere where students could practise conversational English and learn without fear. Under such a safe environment, Chee Ching even braved herself to participate in discussions and gradually overcame her fear of oral tests. In her Mathematics class, the tutor revisited foundational topics, allowing her to catch up with knowledge she had missed earlier. Eventually, her grades improved from a marginal pass to an excellent grade. Beyond academics, Soek Meng helped expand Chee Ching’s Every year, an award ceremony is held to recognise students with outstanding performances in their studies and the Humanistic Culture lessons. From 2023, awards are also presented to role model teachers to recognise their efforts.