As India’s Gov’t Enforces Fresh COVID Lockdowns, GBC Students Benefit From Online Learning

India – In mid-February Maharashtra (MS) was sent into new stringent lockdowns aimed at shutting down businesses and schools in a desperate attempt to slow COVID infections in the most populous state in India. At the center of news with COVID cases, MS government officials are struggling to control cases and instill a sense of well being with lack of vaccines available.

The direct effect of the newest lockdowns on Grace Bible College has been minimized by technology! Previous lockdowns have meant studies have slowed down to a crawl with only the men on campus being able to attend classes. With no women’s dormitory yet built on the two acre campus, the women live three miles off campus and are locked out of the campus until the lockdown is lifted. Same with the professors. Enter a first for GBC: Online teaching.

Just two months ago because of generous donations to the Year End Greatest Need Fund, Indigenous Ministries was able to send funds enabling the purchase of equipment making the campus online ready for the first time! After a few trials and errors, the system went into effect in January. Teachers have been using the TVs while teaching on campus to display Power Points which students report has already made taking notes much, much easier. We’re happy to report that encouragement levels have been up, students and faculty encouraged and studies are ongoing!

Now, teachers are teaching from home with classes broadcast over two large TVs in the classrooms on campus which the men can access. The women, although able to attend online in the off campus dorm, are sharing phones, since half do not have phones. Everyone with a phone will end up paying more for their service which is another challenge.

While COVID challenges still abound, it’s certainly good to be able to share with you, our prayer and financial partners, some good news and ways God is helping us overcome obstacles. Thank you for your ongoing concern and prayers for the students, faculty and staff during these days. Because of your love and gifts, we are able to keep GBC’s doors open and these students are receiving their education and God’s Word continues to go out.