I’m Marijana Curic, a primary teacher from Croatia. I’ve learned a lot about India through the internet, webinars, and fellow teachers who participated in exchange programs. They always mentioned India’s cultural heritage, diversity, educational policies, and teaching methods. When I found out about “The Great India Education Tour” by EdTrips, I couldn’t resist the chance to combine my passion for teaching with a cultural immersion experience. This program offered an incredible opportunity to explore Indian culture, history, and education. I was ecstatic to be selected for this transformative adventure.
On the day we landed in India, we visited one of the most beautiful cities in the country – Agra.
The city received us with open arms and warmth. We were welcomed with garlands, different placards with our pictures and names on them, and roaring cheers from the team at EdTrips Global. All this made us feel like some celebrity walking down the airport. During our transit from the airport, I was constantly looking out of the window to observe everything very closely. The whole atmosphere was so lively; kids were running in the alleys playing different sports, and streets were filled with vendors on every corner selling everything varying from food to clothes.Everyone around was working so hard which taught me an important lesson – how working hard
goes a long way and that everybody should be a hard worker to excel at what they do. I must applaud the team and facilitators at Edtrips global to have smoothly managed everything for us. And post all the formalities, it was time to visit the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. A monument that is talked about in every part of the world due to its beauty, history, and immaculate teachings. We were introduced to Mr. Raunak Sharma, an educator at one of the reputed schools in Agra. He had immense knowledge about the culture, heritage, and history of India. And to our benefit, it turned out that Mr. Raunak Sharma was going to be a part of the tour and educate us about the places we were to visit.
When we arrived at the Taj Mahal, I could see a huge crowd around the monument, and people there from all over the world were taking pictures, and reading newsletters about its significance, history, and importance. I was so excited and full of energy to see the monument that I have heard so much about since my childhood. It was even better than I had imagined it to be, so elegant and so beautiful. While I was mesmerized by the architecture and its beauty, Mr. Raunak Sharma started telling us stories and facts about the monument that only a person who holds a double major in history could do. Taj Mahal is famous for its grandeur structure, a spectacle in white marble depicting a testimony of the emperor, Shah Jahan’s intense love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. We walked around the corners of the Taj Mahal, clicked pictures, and made notes of the facts that Mr.Raunak Sharma were sharing with us.
Eager to understand the local educational system, I was introduced to a group of enthusiastic teachers who warmly welcomed me into their classrooms. I observed how these teachers effortlessly blended traditional Indian teaching methods with modern approaches, captivating the students’ attention. Inspired by their dedication, I shared my own teaching techniques and exchanged ideas on how to create an inclusive and engaging learning environment.
During my stay, My had the opportunity to delve deeper into Indian culture through various cultural exchanges. I participated in traditional dance and music workshops, wmy e I discovered the beauty and rhythm of Indian art forms. My also learned about Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, and was amazed by its holistic approach to well-being.
Visiting Agra and interacting with teachers and students left a lasting impact on me. I learned valuable pedagogical tools, psychological insights, compassion, curriculum strategies, and the significance of emotional intelligence in catering to students’ needs. These lessons will undoubtedly shape my teaching approach back home. The trip also opened my eyes to new knowledge and unfamiliar aspects. Particularly, I was inspired by the educators’ unwavering dedication and willingness to assist students. Their meticulous lesson preparations, late-night festival celebrations, and commitment to annual events showcased their remarkable determination. I’m excited to share my 12-day experience and recount stories with friends and family.
” My visit to Agra under the program The Great India Education Tour by EdTrips had left an indelible mark on my life. It had reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of cultural exchange. With renewed passion, continued my teaching journey, always seeking opportunities to create bridges between cultures and inspire young minds to become global citizens of the world.”
