Context of the Gurukul Program
Our children will be the ones who are going to lead family, society and the country in the future. Caring for them and giving them the right education is thus the duty of each and every one of us.
The type of education provided to our children at schools is essentially based on academic subjects. Such knowledge are more career-based, that is, intended to provide one with the skills to work for the benefit of our economy. However, is this the real education which will make our children happy? Will such education be enough for our children to face the challenges of life?
Our society is in chaos with confused youngsters who are ignorant on how to behave in the family and in the society. The climate in the society is deteriorating further year after year as evidenced by the increase in drugs, alcoholism, divorce,etc .A lot of conferences are being held in Mauritius and worldwide but no solutions to such problems have been sound.
Solutions have clearly been mentioned in the Vedic literatures since more than 5000 years ago and are as appropriate in our modern context as they were previously. But the populace is not caring for such knowledge out of ignorance.
The Gurukul classes offered by ISKCON – Sri Jagannath Mandir attempt to train our children to become effective leaders. The materials used originate from the Vedic literatures. Our motto is “Character is Power”. Training includes aspects such as personality development, moral values and positive thinking. The detailed syllabus for the Gurukul has been worked out after much thoughts and discussions. In a nutshell it includes the following:
- Philosophy and Morale
- Etiquettes
- Depending on age: coloring or lessons from Bhagavad Gita
- It also includes simple devotional songs, and other items based on the interest of students, such as, musical instrument classes.
Assignments and examinations are conducted to test the students and a Certificate will be awarded to successful candidates.
Courses are free except for a registration fee of Rs. 50. Students are provided with free coloring sheets and cakes.
Venue
Presently Gurukul classes are being conducted at the following location:
(1) ISKCON Sri Jagannath Mandir, Morcellement St Andre, on Sundays, from 1.30 p.m to 3.00 p.m.