My (Teaching) Experiences in Rural India
Thanks to Paul Spiesberger and ICT4D.at I had the chance to spend six months in rural Andhra Pradesh, India, from March to August. When Paul first presented this programme, I was immediately hooked, even though I had never traveled outside of Europe before and, as a rather introverted and anxious person, I had never imagined myself solo travelling to India. But Paul struck me as such a genuine and kind person that I trusted him right away. I knew that if I said yes, I would be supported, cared for, and safe. Looking back, I’m grateful for that trust: Paul not only guided me professionally, but also checked in emotionally and always made sure I was okay when I got sick or felt overwhelmed.
Arriving in India
Me and the Bullet
In March, I arrived together with Enno, who spent the first ten days showing me around the college, introducing me to key people, and helping me navigating everyday life and the cultural differences. He also taught me how to ride a Royal Enfield “Bullet” motorbike, which became my daily companion for commuting and travelling during these six months. His help made the beginning way easier and gave me a head start.
Building a routine in a completely new environment was challenging at first, but worked out surprisingly well. Morning runs, yoga, and a small coffee place gave my days a structure. Very soon, I felt at home in this new rhythm. This gave me the foundation to learn new things every day, meet new people and explore my surroundings.
RIT Program and Bachelor’s Thesis
In my time in India I taught the RIT Course which is split into 4 modules. I got to teach the module 2 to second-year students. This module focused on the basics of Java programming with the help of live coding sessions and small programs as homework for students. In the beginning, the organisation of the course was quite challenging due to cultural differences regarding punctuality and overall planability. Soon I learned to adapt and got a bit more spontaneous while also learning to be strict when needed. The sessions with students were very rewarding and always fun.
At the same time, I had to prepare the research for my Bachelor’s thesis, which focused on issues in programming education in rural India, using this very college as a case study. My aim was to identify root causes of problems in teaching and learning, and propose ways to improve them.
Opening the Project Expo for Second and Third Year Students
Exams and Holiday Time
Visiting a Temple in Hampi
By late April, students had exams and no time for the course. During this break, my girlfriend visited, and we travelled together to Bengaluru and Gokarna. In Bengaluru, we explored the modern, high-tech side of India, while in Gokarna, we enjoyed a few peaceful days by the sea. Relaxing, swimming, and simply taking in the beauty of India’s coastline. Before visiting, my girlfriend did not think she would enjoy India and just came to see me. In the end of her visit, she was amazed by the country and the culture and is excited to visit again in the future.
In May, students were on holidays, giving me time to really start the theoretical part of my thesis. I also took a trip to Hampi, where I explored the ruins and temples and met new friends from all across India.
Teaching, Research and Solo Travelling
June and July were full of variety. While students were still on break, we continued some RIT sessions online. With extra time, I set out to explore the countryside by motorbike, experiencing rural India more closely.
When the students returned in July, I was back at the college regularly. Teaching again in person was rewarding, I enjoyed seeing the progress of the students and the times just having fun. At the same time, I was conducting surveys and interviews as part of my thesis research. By the end of July, most of my thesis was written.
Hyderabad
I also squeezed in a trip to Hyderabad, where I had the chance to experience both a big Muslim festival and the Bonalu Hindu festival on the same day. Bonalu, in particular, was one of the most intense experiences of my stay. It was a mix of devotion, music, dance, and pure celebration.
Later in July, I visited friends in Mumbai, stayed in a student flat, explored the city by local train, and got a glimpse of urban student life. The sense of community surprised me in such a huge city. Everywhere people looked out for each other and shared food on trains and were very welcoming overall.
One thing that is true for all places that I visited: I always felt secure and well looked after. I knew if something were to happen, there would always be a lot of people helping me without asking.
August was about finishing things. I completed my RIT course, finalised my thesis, and enjoyed the last weeks in India with a sense of closure. By chance, a wedding took place in the garden of my flat, and I was invited to take part in the ceremonies – a beautiful ending to my time there.
Looking Back
Before this trip, I knew next to nothing about India. It is a country with nearly twice the population of Europe, yet most people back home only have vague ideas about it and lots of negative prejudices. Over these six months, I discovered a country full of contrasts: from rural quiet to megacity chaos, from deep traditions to cutting-edge technology, from challenges in education to incredible creativity and resilience. What amazed me most was how kind and welcoming the people were and their willingness to share what they have.
This journey changed me in ways I could not have imagined. I am deeply grateful for the people I met, the students I got to teach, the festivals I experienced, and the countless small moments that made up my life here. I am already looking forward to visiting this beautiful country again.
Awarding of Certificates for Module 2 StudentsWedding Ceremony in my Garden
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