The Khmer language class at Serey Kandal pagoda in Vinh Phuoc ward attracts a large number of students.
Learning to read and write at the temple
Every summer afternoon, the atmosphere at Serey Kandal Pagoda (Vinh Phuoc Ward) becomes lively. Amidst the peaceful surroundings, under the majestic pagoda roof, the spacious courtyard resonates with the sounds of students reading, the monks lecturing, and the cheerful laughter of the children. Simple desks and chairs are neatly arranged in the classrooms, each child engrossed in practicing calligraphy, their enthusiasm clearly visible on their faces.
Son Thi Ngoc Thuy, a second-grade student, excitedly shared: “During the summer, my friends and I from the neighborhood go to the temple to learn Khmer, and it’s so much fun! Besides learning to read and write, we also get to listen to the monks preach about morality. I really enjoy learning at the temple!” Thach Minh Tai, a third-grade student learning Khmer, happily recounted: “Since the summer break, I’ve been coming to class regularly every day. Thanks to learning here, I’ve learned many new words and made many new friends.”
Parents also expressed joy and reassurance at sending their children to classes at the pagoda. Ms. Son Thi Sa Ren, a parent whose child is studying at Serey Kandal Pagoda, shared: “I am very happy to see my child enjoying learning Khmer every day. This is an opportunity for my child to acquire knowledge about the language, writing system, and traditional customs of the ethnic group, while also avoiding getting involved in video games or social vices.”
This summer, Serey Kandal Pagoda has welcomed over 450 students in grades 1 through 4. The pagoda proactively arranged classrooms, divided classes by age group, scheduled classes appropriately, and encouraged qualified monks to teach. Venerable Thach Hong, Abbot of Serey Kandal Pagoda, said: “This is not only an educational activity but also a way to preserve the Khmer language and writing system, the soul of the Khmer people. For children from disadvantaged backgrounds, the pagoda provides them with all the necessary books and writing materials so they can attend classes with peace of mind.”
Spreading the spirit of preserving the national language.
The movement to open Khmer language classes has spread strongly throughout temples such as Chhung Thum Temple (Lai Hoa commune), Sala Pôthi Serey Sakor Temple, Serey Kro Săng Temple (Vinh Chau ward)... Each temple attracts from 50 to 400 students and monks attending classes from grades 1 to 3 and even beginner Pali classes. This is evidence of the community's concern for preserving the Khmer mother tongue and culture.
Venerable Thach Phet, abbot of Sala Pothi Serey Sakor pagoda, said: “Every summer, Khmer Theravada Buddhist pagodas organize completely free Khmer language classes, creating opportunities for Buddhist children to learn. This activity has been maintained for decades as a fine tradition. Learning Khmer not only helps children learn to read and write Khmer but also helps them understand customs, traditions, and moral principles according to Buddhist teachings.”
With the support of the local government and the enthusiasm of the abbots, the summer classes at the pagoda have been continuously maintained and developed. This is also an ideal "summer school" for children in rural areas with a large Khmer ethnic minority population. These classes, though simple and modest, illuminate knowledge, awaken the awareness of preserving the ethnic language, and spread love for Khmer culture in the hearts of each child. It is a quiet but meaningful journey, contributing to the nurturing of a young generation of Khmer people.
Text and photos: THACH PICH
Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/nuoi-duong-ban-sac-dan-toc-a188298.html
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