It was so great to see the village we were staying in. We met the mayor, who welcomed us with their customary handshake, and showed us the town hall, where they discuss matters of the community. Although it is not as developed as some other countries, it seems like a progressive place. With much emphasis on education and redevelopment for the people of the community.
Andrew and Brendon from our lodge are heavily involved in the school projects in particular, and when we visited the school, we took them some supplies that they need. Instead of just taking anything, the school give out lists of what the children need, which is great!
There are some children here who walk up to 10km to get to school each day. We took some bikes for the school to present to some of these children, to help them with the commute.
The school is so important to this community, and the teachers were so welcoming and told us all about the children. Sometimes, as the children may not have the most support at home with their education, the teachers will sleep here with the children, and study through the night for exams, or to make sure they stay in school. It is so easy for the kids here to drop out of school before finishing their education, so these initiatives and dedication from the teachers means everything.
Blankets for them to sleep here
The School Library
Classroom blocksÂ
As we entered some of the classrooms, the kids were so excited! Telling us what they were doing, as they had just started to learn English.
As I sat down at one of the tables, two boys instantly took hold of my hands, stroking them and staring at my nails.
They were telling me how soft they were, and comparing mine to theirs. I just sat whilst they checked out my hands for a while.
I am so glad we saw the village and met these children. As cliche as it seems, it truly puts things into perspective, and helps to see how other cultures and countries live.
