THE CLASS OF 2020

2020 is not a normal year. Thanks to COVID 19. But then don't we have ups and downs every year? So what is different with this year? The difference is that 2020 has given same threat to 195 nations across the globe- The COVID pandemic. So everyone can understand each other's plight (such understanding is missing in other cases). There are a dozen of things we can count which has changed in our daily lives. But for now, I feel for my students and want to talk about the anxiety and uncertainty they are facing during this time. A lot of educational institutes have cancelled their exams and promoted the students on the basis of average marks. Many students are attending classes of new session too, of course online. Home-schools are also going on. Though we understand that students, specially younger minds are finding it difficult to study in a room with no friends around, with no activities, with no colourful boards and educating charts; we must also pay attention to the amount of hardwork teachers are putting in to design online content for engaging the curious minds. As an educator, I know the challenges teaching community is facing. We need to upgrade ourselves continuously, not only with the subject matter but also with the technology. However, I also know the plight of students too. The amount of mental pressure, anxiety they are undergoing as the exams of final year are still due. The final years have not being lucky enough to be promoted on average marks in many universities and institutes. Many of them are waiting to join the jobs they got during campus placement. Finally the exam are starting from tomorrow! The final exams of final year! Most crucial, and this time, not in normal conditions.

The class of 2020, I wish you more strength, patience and positivity to sail through this tough time. You have missed your farewell (the most awaited event of one's college life), flying the graduation caps, getting clicked with your gang in formals and sarees, the games, the dance, the Ms Farewell & Mr Farewell tags, the scribbling day, the last meal in the canteen. This is so unfair. As I write this, I get nostalgic thinking of the last year farewell and all the happy faces. I wish that post COVID world gives you immense happiness and reasons to smile, so much so that it makes up for all the moments you have missed. May be we can meet next year and give a double farewell? The class of 2020, you are special, you are surviving a pandemic, stay strong, stay positive. Till we meet again, why not create memories in this COVID period and make 2020 even more memorable? Write notes for you friends, dress up and click yourselves, have online meetings, doodle messages for your friends and [may be teachers too ;-)]. But for now focus on your final exams. Give your best.

2020 is not just about giving your final exams, its about passing the exam of life. Don't let this speed breaker ruin your special moments. As they say, when life gives you lemons, make lemonade and enjoy! Waiting to meet you all in person soon. Stay safe till then. Good Luck to you all once again.👍