Teaching, Inspiring, Growing: Stories of student volunteers
eVidyaloka|January 2026
eVidyaloka|January 2026
Volunteering is more than an act of service; it’s a transformative journey. Through eVidyaloka’s Digital Classroom Program, volunteers find a meaningful platform to turn their passion into impact. Beyond explaining concepts, volunteer teachers strive to spark curiosity and nurture a genuine interest in learning. Whether it is their first time volunteering or returning with prior experience, a shared sense of purpose lies at the core. Even within the boundaries of a virtual classroom, the dedication of volunteers travels across screens, creating lasting change that steadily unfolds in the lives of their students.
Rajasi volunteers to teach children at a rural school in Maharashtra. She began her journey as an English teacher. She realised early on that helping students grasp grammar while building their vocabulary was no easy task. She shares, “I made sure every child learned one new English word in each class. Using picture books became a game-changer as the visuals helped students connect words with meaning naturally.” Beyond language lessons, Rajasi thoughtfully weaved in moral values and simple science concepts during her sessions, encouraging students to think beyond their textbooks.
This year, Rajasi teaches mathematics to grade 6 students. Many students were quick to express their dislike for the subject, making it clear that a traditional approach would not work. She knew her lessons needed to be visual and activity-based to truly engage them. Elaborating on her method, she says, “By using paper, craft, and real-life objects to explain fundamentals, math became fun. When students made shapes and models themselves, it improved their focus and understanding.”
She also fondly recalls a memorable moment from her classes, sharing, “I surprised the children by showing them my drone and aerial robotics lab. They were amazed, and that excitement turned into motivation. Many students began saying they want to study hard and build something meaningful in life.”
As an undergraduate student, Rajasi’s volunteering journey has helped her strengthen her own skills. Reflecting on the experience, she shares, “Volunteering has improved my communication, confidence, and ability to explain complex ideas simply. Most importantly, it has reminded me that sometimes, one class can do more than teach a topic; it can change how a child sees their future.”
Priya, an undergraduate psychology student, volunteers as an English teacher for grade 7 students at a rural school in Bihar. She fosters a classroom environment where students feel comfortable speaking in English without the fear of making mistakes. Sharing her approach, she explained, “Correcting those mistakes together helps them understand concepts more deeply, and it slowly removes their fear of English. I also teach definitions in both Hindi and English, so revision after class becomes easier and more accessible for them.”
Over the weeks, she began noticing visible changes in her students. They started studying more consistently, and the overall responsiveness in the classroom improved significantly. Sharing her experience, she said, “Watching them raise their hands confidently and attempt questions without hesitation is honestly the best part of my day. There is something incredibly fulfilling about knowing that you might be one of the reasons a child feels supported in their education.”
Volunteering has also contributed significantly to Priya’s personal growth. Reflecting on her journey, she recalls, “Teaching has brought more discipline into my life, improved my time management, and made me more patient and thoughtful. It has shown me how small, consistent efforts can shape confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning. Being part of these children’s growth has been a gift. They are the future, and playing even a tiny role in their learning feels truly meaningful.”
Rajasi and Priya’s journeys show that volunteering is not just about teaching, it’s about creating meaningful connections, inspiring curiosity, and nurturing confidence in young minds. Through their dedication, they are shaping the future of their students while also growing personally, discovering patience, resilience, and the joy of making a difference. In the virtual classrooms of eVidyaloka, distance becomes irrelevant, and the shared journey of learning transforms lives, one student, one lesson, and one volunteer at a time.
Explore how quality education empowers children to break barriers and reach their full potential.
Discuss innovative teaching methods and approaches used by education NGOs to foster a love for learning.
Shed light on the dedicated educators, staff, and volunteers who drive the NGO's educational initiatives.
