Nearly 80 years old, retired teacher still sells lottery tickets and teaches poor children

This is a special class for children in difficult circumstances who do not have the conditions to go to school. The class is maintained by the love of Ms. Nguyen Thi Ba (nearly 80 years old, residing in Thu Dau Mot ward) and the joint efforts of local authorities and philanthropists.

The opening ceremony did not have a large stage, no loud drums. Instead, there was a warm classroom space, simple desks, and the laughter of students. In particular, the opening ceremony had the love of teacher Nguyen Thi Ba and philanthropists for the disadvantaged students.

At the opening ceremony, Ms. Nguyen Thi Ba shared her emotion when meeting students again, after months of summer vacation. She introduced each student to the class, so that everyone could understand and share with each other.

On this occasion, philanthropists gave shirts, backpacks, books and pens to students. Simple gifts but bringing great joy to students on the first day of the school year.

At the end of the opening ceremony, Ms. Ba carefully checked her homework and instructed students to prepare for the next class.

Ms. Ba said that 6 students attended the opening ceremony. Some parents who heard the news also came to ask for their children to attend. She continued to guide procedures, welcome new students and wait for them to return to their hometowns and return to class next week.

According to Ms. Nguyen Thi Ba, most of the students in the class are poor children with many different circumstances. They all have to make a living from a young age, some help at eateries, some sell lottery tickets. They all do not have the conditions to attend formal schools like their peers.

Every day they go to work, helping their families. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, they come to class to learn to read.

“I used to be a primary school teacher and retired in 2003. After that, I have been attached to this class for 10 years. Now I am old, my health is also weak, but I will try to teach them for another year. The children in the class are all children of workers and laborers in difficult circumstances in Thu Dau Mot ward and other provinces and cities who come here to earn a living. The circumstances of the children are very pitiful,” Ms. Ba shared.

What she wants is not only to help disadvantaged students learn to read and write, but also to teach them how to behave and be polite. When they grow up, she hopes they can learn a profession, take care of their lives and become useful people for society.

After the opening ceremony, the teacher continued to sell lottery tickets.

After the opening ceremony, Ms. Ba did not go home to rest immediately. This special teacher again held a stack of lottery tickets in her hand, continuing her daily work.

She said that selling lottery tickets is something she has done in recent years to have more income to cover living expenses. However, the money earned is not only for herself. She spends a portion of her income to buy rice and household items to help people in need. When students are in need, she also finds ways to support them.

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