A volunteer-run Punjabi school in Geelong, Australia, has grown from 15 to 53 students by offering cultural education that enhances social connections and language skills among children and their families.
The Virasati Punjabi School Geelong, established five years ago, has seen substantial growth from just 15 students to 53, illustrating the demand for Punjabi language and culture education in the area. This volunteer-run initiative aims to teach Punjabi language, dance, and cultural practices to students, providing them with a sense of identity and belonging in a diverse society. Classes are held once a week for three hours, focusing on language acquisition as well as enhancing social skills among children.
Parents have expressed positive sentiments regarding the impact the school has had on their children. For instance, Gurveer Kaur highlighted the transformation in her son's behavior and social skills since he started attending the school. He has progressed significantly, now confidently reciting the Punjabi alphabet and eagerly participating in play with other kids, which marks a notable change from his previous interactions. The school not only fosters language learning but also creates a supportive community for families, reinforcing cultural ties within the Punjabi-speaking population in Victoria.
Census data from 2021 reveals that Victoria has the highest number of Punjabi speakers in Australia, emphasizing the importance of institutions like the Virasati Punjabi School. Despite this large community, the lack of Punjabi language courses in mainstream education highlights the necessity of volunteer-run schools to fill this gap. The success of such initiatives is critical for preserving cultural heritage and supporting the linguistic development of children in the region.
