Shanti Devi Tamang, a dedicated educator, has been serving as an Early Childhood Development (ECD) teacher at UWS Kalleri for the past 16 years. At 38 years old, Shanti Devi’s passion for teaching and nurturing young minds shines through her daily interactions with her students.
When asked about her inspiration to become an ECD teacher, Shanti Devi emphasises the importance of laying a strong foundation during a child’s formative years. She believes this period is crucial for a child’s overall development, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional growth. Shanti Devi is driven by the desire to facilitate all-inclusive development through play, instilling good habits, and fostering a love for learning.
On a daily basis, Shanti Devi finds motivation in various aspects of her work. “I am encouraged to work due to the encouragement I receive from the parents and my colleagues; children’s smiles and laughter are also a major motivation,” she says. She approaches her role with a sense of faith and love, striving to be a friend and mentor to her students. She takes pride in the decoration and management of her classroom, creating an environment conducive to learning and exploration.
UWS Nepal has played a huge role in Shanti Devi’s professional development. Unlike previous verbal training, the practical training provided by UWS Nepal has equipped her with valuable skills such as understanding student psychology, incorporating yoga and play-based learning into her lessons, storytelling, and creating educational materials. These training sessions have enhanced her teaching abilities and facilitated personal growth.
“I have witnessed remarkable changes within students and myself too,” she says. By understanding their psychology, she has created a nurturing learning environment where students feel empowered and confident. Shanti’s innovative approach, such as using recycled materials for classroom decorations, has sparked creativity and resourcefulness among her students. Their progress is evident in their improved storytelling abilities, organisational skills, and respectful behaviour towards others.
“I hope for continued professional development opportunities, particularly in the areas of ECD and child psychology”. She also anticipates adding games and storybooks to enrich the learning experience for her students.
Shanti Devi is grateful for the unwavering support she receives from both her family and the school community. With their encouragement and collaboration, she remains committed to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning at UWS Kalleri.
