The numerology class in the temple
One weekend morning, the clicking sound of keyboards echoed through the grounds of Krang Chay Pagoda. In a small room, dozens of monks and students intently gazed at computer screens, practicing typing lines of text in Vietnamese and Khmer under the dedicated guidance of Venerable Chau Sa Ruonl.
Venerable Chau Sa Ruonl instructs monks on the use of computers. Photo: THI HOA
In this era of rapidly developing information technology, computer literacy has become an essential skill. However, in ethnic minority areas, where learning conditions are still difficult, access to technology remains a significant gap for many children. Understanding this, Venerable Chau Sa Ruonl dedicated his time to opening free computer classes for Khmer monks and students in the local area. Chau Thi Nhu Y, a student at Phan Chu Trinh Secondary School, shared: “Before, I didn't know how to use a computer, so I found it a bit difficult. Since coming to the temple to study, with the Venerable's guidance, I now know how to type, do assignments on the computer, and translate short passages from Khmer to Vietnamese and vice versa. Every time I successfully complete an assignment, I feel very happy and want to learn even more.”
In this class, lessons are taught in Khmer, making it easier for Khmer monks and students to absorb knowledge. Each Khmer character displayed on the computer screen contributes to preserving the Khmer language and script in the digital environment. Besides teaching computer skills, Venerable Chau Sa Ruonl also guides students on how to use the internet safely, how to filter information, and how to avoid getting addicted to video games and harmful content on social media. These lessons help the students approach technology in a positive way, serving their studies and lives. Neang Soc Chia Ta, a student from Phan Chu Trinh Secondary School, said: “At first, I didn't know how to use a computer and was afraid of making mistakes. With the Venerable's guidance, I learned to type Khmer characters and find learning materials online. Every weekend I look forward to coming to the pagoda to study with my friends.”
Opening the door to the future
The classes are held regularly on weekends and during the summer, with about 20 monks and students participating each day. Despite limited facilities, the learning atmosphere is always lively. Many monks from neighboring temples also come to Krang Chay Pagoda to learn computer skills. For the monks and students, this is not only a skills training class but also an opportunity to keep up with digital technology . “Previously, whenever I needed to draft documents or do anything related to computers, I had to ask others for help. Since coming to study at Krang Chay Pagoda, under the guidance of the Venerable Abbot, I can now type documents in two languages myself. This knowledge is very necessary for monks in today's times,” shared Venerable Chau Phi Rieng, a monk from Sdach Tot Pagoda in An Cu commune.
Besides teaching basic computer skills, Venerable Chau Sa Ruonl also guides students in drafting documents, presenting bilingual Vietnamese-Khmer content, editing images, and designing invitation cards using simple graphic design software. Knowledge that once seemed unfamiliar to monks and students from ethnic minority communities has now become accessible and practical. Many monks, after completing the course, can independently draft documents to support their work at the temple or assist local people. For monks who return to secular life after leaving the monastic life, computer skills are also a valuable asset, helping them confidently find employment and stabilize their lives. Venerable Chau Chia, a monk at Neng Non Temple in An Cu commune, said: "Learning computer skills helps support learning and document drafting at the temple, allowing monks to access information more quickly."
From simple beginnings, the free computer class at Krang Chay Pagoda is sowing the seeds of digital knowledge for the Khmer people. Each lesson provides skills, opens up confidence, and helps bridge the technological gap between Khmer students in the Bay Nui region and other areas. “I want to create opportunities for monks and Khmer children to access information technology. I will continue to maintain the class, teaching in Khmer so that the children can understand more easily. After learning, the monks and students can apply what they've learned in their studies and daily lives,” shared Venerable Chau Sa Ruonl.
THI HOA
(Department of Ethnic Minorities and Religions)
Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/dua-tri-thuc-so-den-chua-khmer-a486365.html
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