Speaking out

Balavedi, the children's and women's wing of the Malayalee Samajam, Abu Dhabi, has introduced public speaking classes as a part of its personality development programme for children in the age group of 11 to 16 years.

A group of enthusiastic children meet at the Malayalee Samajam every Wednesday and Thursday evening. They are given a time limit of five minutes to present a topic of their choice either in English or in Malayalam. A variety of topics such as the importance of newspapers, famous personalities, environment, different professions, festivals and the meaning of freedom are some of the favourites.

One of the observers, Ansar, assesses the performance of all the speakers individually on a point-based scale to help children identify their plus and minus points and improve accordingly. Suggestions are given on various aspects such as building up confidence, choosing a topic and language abilities, including vocabulary, expression and pronunciation.

Sixteen-year-old Ansy Begum joined the first session, shy and unable to express her views to others. Today, she is confident enough to choose her own topic and present it both in English and Malayalam. Nazim Khan, an 8th standard student does not have to take time from his studies preparing for the topic of his choice. He enjoys discussions about it with friends and parents. Public speaking class has helped Dridshya to build her confidence and she uses her spare time researching her topic.

Encouraged by a positive feedback from both children and parents, the organisers have chalked out plans to introduce debating, elocution competitions and guest lectures by people from different walks of life. Thanks to the dedication of Dinesh, A.K. Ansar and Neena Thomas, public speaking for children has become a successful project, guiding children to overcome stage fright, lack of confidence and express themselves boldly and confidently.