Learning to Read English in India By Narda Pitkethly
India is a country rich in culture, diversity, and language. Yet, for many students, learning to read English—a global language that opens doors to education, career opportunities, and communication—can be a real challenge. Recently, Karen’s daughter, Lena, embarked on a mission to bring the Nardagani Reading Program to schools across India, helping students learn to read English quickly and confidently.
A Mission to Teach English
Lena spent several months visiting schools in different regions, from bustling cities to remote mountain villages. Her goal was simple: to help students learn to read English in a structured, effective, and enjoyable way. She used the Nardagani Reading Program, a system designed to simplify the complexities of English pronunciation and word decoding.
Unlike traditional reading programs, which often rely on rote memorization or confusing phonetic rules, Nardagani uses a set of 12 simple symbols that guide learners on how to pronounce each letter or combination of letters. This method allows students to start reading immediately while building confidence and fluency.
Rapid Progress in Four Lessons
At the schools Lena visited, students were able to read their first English words in as little as four lessons. The Nardagani method breaks reading into small, manageable steps, ensuring that learners can understand, practice, and master each component before moving on.
Once students felt confident with pronunciation and decoding, their vocabulary expanded rapidly. They moved from reading single words to short sentences, and soon they were engaging in simple conversations in English. Teachers reported that students were not only reading faster but were also more motivated to participate in classroom activities and communicate in English.
Building Connections Across Cultures
One of the most remarkable aspects of Lena’s trip was the bonds she formed with students. On a previous visit, she had met a young girl named Sering, who shared Lena’s enthusiasm for learning. Despite being from different parts of the world, the two became close friends, keeping in touch over the past two years.
When Lena returned to the school this past summer, the reunion was heartwarming. Sering, now more confident in reading and speaking English, greeted Lena with excitement. Their friendship became a living example of how learning a language can bridge cultural gaps and foster meaningful connections.
Teaching at the Jamyang School in Leh, Ladakh
One of the highlights of Lena’s visit was teaching at the Jamyang School in Leh, Ladakh, which was founded by the Dalai Lama. The school emphasizes holistic education, encouraging students to excel academically while nurturing values such as compassion, discipline, and mindfulness.
Here, Lena applied the Nardagani Reading Program with students who were eager to learn. Many had little prior exposure to English, yet within days, they were able to read sentences aloud and engage in simple dialogue. Teachers and staff noted the enthusiasm and focus of the students, highlighting how a structured reading system can accelerate learning even in challenging environments.
Beyond Reading: Confidence and Communication
Learning to read English is not just about decoding letters and words—it also builds confidence. As students in India mastered the Nardagani symbols and began reading fluently, they experienced a boost in self-esteem. They were no longer hesitant to answer questions in class or participate in discussions.
This newfound confidence extended beyond the classroom. Students began using English to interact with peers, ask questions, and explore new subjects. For many, learning to read English opened doors to online resources, books, and educational content that was previously inaccessible.
The Power of Nardagani
The success of the program in India underscores the effectiveness of Nardagani’s approach. By simplifying English pronunciation and providing a clear path to reading fluency, the method empowers students of all ages to achieve results quickly. It also adapts to different learning styles, making it suitable for both children and adults, as well as students learning English as a second language.
Teachers at the schools Lena visited expressed their appreciation for the program, noting how it complements traditional education. They saw students who had struggled with English in the past suddenly reading confidently and participating actively in class.
Lifelong Impact
Beyond immediate academic improvements, learning to read English has a lifelong impact on students. Mastery of English opens opportunities for higher education, scholarships, and global communication. For students in remote areas, it can be the key to accessing new knowledge, understanding the world, and achieving personal and professional goals.
Lena’s work demonstrates that with the right tools and guidance, students can overcome linguistic barriers and unlock their potential. The friendships, confidence, and excitement for learning she witnessed are a testament to the transformative power of literacy.
Looking Ahead
Lena’s visit is just one example of how the Nardagani Reading Program is making a difference worldwide. As more schools adopt this approach, students everywhere can benefit from a system designed to make learning to read English accessible, enjoyable, and effective.
The journey of Lena and the students in India reminds us that reading is more than a skill—it is a bridge to knowledge, communication, and opportunity. And through programs like Nardagani, students can achieve that bridge in just a few lessons.
A Personal Note
Watching students progress from struggling readers to confident communicators is a reminder of why Nardagani exists: to make reading accessible to everyone, regardless of age, location, or background. Lena’s experience in India highlights that learning to read English is not just about words on a page—it’s about empowerment, growth, and connection.
As Sering and Lena’s friendship shows, literacy can transcend boundaries, build lasting relationships, and inspire a new generation of learners. The smiles, enthusiasm, and determination of these students are living proof that when we equip learners with the right tools, remarkable transformations can happen.