Ludhiana, Feb. 4: A number of non-resident Indian children are visiting Punjab for academic pursuits. Their parents believe by acquiring knowledge in Indian education system, the children can also imbibe Punjabi values and traditions that come along with learning here.

Born in Vancouver, Canada, Hardeep Kaur now resides with her grandparents in Punjab. Her father Devinder Gill decided to provide his daughter quality education and also ensure that she is familiar with Indian values.

Devinder Gill, the non-resident Indian father, said: “Punjabi youth in Canada have opened Indo-Canadian churches which is a downbeat for the Punjabi community, because the Sikh culture there has taken a back seat. Secondly, education standards have improved tremendously in Punjab. Children are getting the best education and they also develop friendship with their own people. The child learns more about love and relationships being here.

Educational institutions like Jatindera Greenfield School in Gurusar Sudhar Village are catering to the needs of non-resident Punjabis.

One of the main attractions at the school is its curriculum that has been designed in such a manner that an non-resident Indian child can avail of modern education akin to a school in Europe and America.

Be it computers, craft and languages all combine to make learning in Punjab a joy for all overseas students here. The students learn folk dances and music of Punjab. They are taught and enabled to participate in rural games.

At least 21 foreign-born children have found an opportunity to get connected to their original roots.

For the NRI parents their main objective remains to see their children nurture mannerisms and ethos which are integral part of the Indian lifestyle.

According to Dr. Tarunvee Saini, Principal of the Jatindera Greenfield School, the NRI parents want their children to have fine human values besides good education.

“This is only possible if a child has fine moral values, which we impart here along with modern values. We have work sheets, computer education, and modern labs. Having a well qualified teaching staff, we educate children with modern techniques,” Saini said.

Students are delighted to be in India and are enjoying their schools.

Ashleen Kaur, a Canada born student, said: “I like India. I like Punjab. I like going to gurdwaras. I like to celebrate Lohri, Baisakhi, Diwali and Dushehra.”

Amandeep Kaur, a U. S born student, said: “My parents are settled in the United States but I want to live here. I loveIndia.”

Besides, the school also arranges a regular trip for NRI students to nearby villages to help them to become aware of rural lifestyle and work culture in India. (ANI)