On 24 September 2025, the Mohun Parsad Sharma Jugdambi State Secondary School in Goodlands proudly inaugurated its new Indian Corner. The ceremony was graced by Dr. Mahend Gungapersad, Minister of Education and Human Resources, and Mr. Anurag Srivastava, the High Commissioner of India to Mauritius. This initiative introduces students to a rich collection of Indian literature and knowledge, aiming to cultivate a robust reading culture while fostering cross-cultural understanding.
The Vision Behind the Indian Corner
The Indian Corner was established to provide students with access to 500 books generously donated by the Government of India. These books cover a wide range of topics, including history, literature, science, technology, and culture. The initiative seeks to inspire curiosity, enhance learning outcomes, and connect students with Indian heritage. By creating this dedicated space, the school emphasizes the importance of reading as a tool for personal and academic growth.
Encouraging Lifelong Reading Habits
Minister Gungapersad highlighted the transformative power of regular reading. He emphasized that books not only provide knowledge but also improve critical thinking, imagination, and communication skills. “Reading nourishes the mind, heart, and soul. A well-rounded individual balances technological understanding with emotional intelligence,” he remarked. Students were encouraged to explore the Indian Corner frequently and incorporate reading into their daily routines.
Strengthening Educational and Cultural Ties
High Commissioner Anurag Srivastava reiterated India’s commitment to supporting educational and cultural programs in Mauritius. The Indian Corner offers students an opportunity to explore India’s rich cultural heritage, inspiring them to engage with literature and history from an early age. Initiatives like this enhance bilateral ties by promoting shared learning experiences and intercultural dialogue between the two nations.
The Role of Schools in Promoting Reading
Educational institutions play a pivotal role in nurturing reading habits. By providing accessible resources such as the Indian Corner, schools can foster curiosity, strengthen cognitive skills, and promote self-directed learning. Teachers are encouraged to integrate these materials into their curriculum and motivate students to reflect, discuss, and share insights gained from their reading.
Student Engagement and Knowledge Sharing
The Minister also encouraged students to share knowledge acquired from the Indian Corner with peers and the wider community. This approach transforms individual learning into a collective benefit, promoting collaboration, discussion, and critical thinking. Students who actively engage with the material develop leadership skills and contribute to a vibrant learning environment within the school.
Practical Benefits of the Indian Corner
Access to diverse books allows students to improve literacy, explore new ideas, and develop research skills. The initiative fosters intellectual curiosity while helping students cultivate empathy and understanding of different cultures. According to global educational studies, early exposure to diverse literature positively impacts academic achievement and personal development (see UNESCO Education Reports).
Building a Community of Lifelong Learners
The Indian Corner serves not just as a reading space but as a hub for intellectual exchange. Students are encouraged to participate in discussions, book clubs, and cultural activities linked to the material. This engagement helps develop analytical skills and builds a sense of responsibility toward sharing knowledge with the broader community.
Promoting Creativity and Critical Thinking
Books in the Indian Corner cover topics that stimulate creativity and independent thinking. Students learn to question, analyze, and synthesize information. Encouraging critical engagement with the material ensures that learning extends beyond rote memorization, fostering skills that are vital for personal growth and future career development.
Conclusion: Inspiring Future Generations
The inauguration of the Indian Corner at Mohun Parsad Sharma Jugdambi School is a significant step in promoting a culture of reading and learning in Mauritius. By connecting students to Indian literature, history, and science, the initiative enhances education, inspires curiosity, and strengthens bilateral cultural ties. This project underscores the importance of accessible resources, encouraging young learners to embrace reading as a lifelong habit. Such initiatives pave the way for informed, empathetic, and culturally aware future generations.
For related insights on fostering reading and literacy in schools, see our guide on Cultural Events Mauritius.
