THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As many as 76 inmates, all senior citizens, of Pakalveedu at Poovar are getting ready to attempt their first literacy exam under Kerala State Literacy Mission’s ‘Akshara Lakshyam’ project. Neglecting their old age issues, the inmates will take the third-standard equivalent exam on August 5.
It all began when Loyola Social Welfare And Charitable Society in Poovar, an NGO for old people, realised that many inmates of its ‘pakalveedu’ at Poovar were illiterate. The NGO, in association with the Kerala State Literacy Mission Authority, enrolled them into the ‘Akshara Lakshyam’ project that focuses on non-formal education. Soon, classes were held once a week every Wednesday.
Their enthusiasm is not hindered by their old age. Dashyan, a 98-year-old fisherman, is the oldest student. “Out of 130 students, around 80 were illiterate. The educated ones helped me teach the others,” said Sunitha Yesudas, pakalveedu coordinator and teacher. After qualifying the exam, they can join the next phase, the fourth-standard equivalence class.
For 82-year old Rosemary, learning brings her great joy. “I am part of this home from the start. Though my eyesight and memory are fading, interest in learning brings me here. The teachers help us in all possible way to make it easier. I hope to qualify the exam in my first attempt,” said Rosemary.
For 90-year old Margaret, the pakalveedu is just like her home. “I can’t hear properly. But, the teacher makes things simple for me. We have all freedom here,” she adds.
Literacy Mission coordinator Suja says that the inmates are excited to learn. “Games and other activities are included in the class to make them feel happy,” said Suja.
Pakalveedu
Pakalveedu is a daycare centre started for old people to spend their daytime by NGO director Fr K J Thomas in 2016. It provides services free of cost and the inmates spend their mornings here and return home by evening. There are over 130 candidates and 80 of them are women. There are also 10 disabled people who attend the classes.