The importance of providing sustained and quality education to children in the community was emphasised by a leader of the Sikh community last week.
New Delhi based Nanaksar Trust Worldwide Trust Chairman Sant Baba Amar Singh said that children must be exposed to sound education at an early age.
“Education is the foundation with which an individual can build a successful career and can contribute positively to the wider society as well,” he said, inaugurating the Nanaksar Chardi Kala Learning Centre in Manurewa, Auckland on February 6. 2011.
Rajvinder Singh, Administrator of the Anand Isher Education Community (AIEC) Trust, which runs the Centre, said children studying in Year 5 to Year 8 (ages 9 to 12) will have the benefit of overall development.
“The focus is on building in our children good qualities and character. The Centre, approved by the Education Ministry, has been set up in response to the needs of local families,” he said.
He said Baba Amar Singh chose ‘Chardi Kala’ (meaning high spirits and positive thinking) as the name for the Centre, since it aims to provide holistic learning opportunities.
“Such learning will lift the spirit of our youth and give them positive reinforcement for a complete and contented way of life,” he said.
Mr Rajvinder Singh said many migrant families, with both spouses working, do not have the time or educational background to help their children in studies.
“Some children would lose interest in education and drop out of school. The Centre will fill in this gap and try to help children enjoy their learning,” he said.
According to him, qualified teachers will render individual attention to the children studying at the Centre, working alongside their schools and encouraging their families to support their children.
“The Centre is well equipped with broadband internet connection, reference books and a highly stimulating learning environment. Students will also be given guidance and counseling for life skills and career options,” he said.
Manukau District Court Judge Dr Ajit Singh said the importance of education cannot be over-emphasised.
“I am happy that the AIEC Trust has established the Centre to provide added value to educating our children,” he said.
Mr Rajvinder Singh said the presence of Dr Singh was an inspiration to parents and children.
“His passion for promoting education is well known in the community and listening to his life and struggle to seek higher education was a source of inspiration and endearment to all of us,” he said.
National MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi said organisations such as the AIEC Trust and the Learning Centre deserved support.
The Centre began its activities on February 14, 2011.
For enrolment and other information, call (09) 2689539
