Friday – last day of classes

Stephanie and I went to school early this morning for the assembly.  I had gifts for the top male and female students and was able to present those.  I then observed two more teachers.  Teaching here includes a prescribed process.  Every teacher begins every class the same way:  divide the black board into 3 sections using the chalk; write the date and subject; tell the class the purpose and goals of the lesson.  They write on the board as they teach asking students questions in various forms, walking up and down the two aisles of desks.  The best teachers have their notes and lessons memorized.  Other teachers have their notes nearby for reference.  The students write down what the teacher has on the board.  Only the teachers have text books.  The students do not.  The end of class is signaled by a student designated to ring the bell.  He wears a watch.

There is a stark contrast between male and female students.  Most noticeable is there are far fewer females, about 1/3 of the class in registration but more like 1/5 in attendance.  Female students are absent due to responsibilities at home, menstrual cycle with no protection and then the normal things like sickness, especially malaria.  They are less likely to participate in class and complain that the teachers do not call on them very often.  However, today one of the teachers I observed told the class, “I have not heard from many of the girls.  Please raise your hand so I can call on you.”  They are also often late to class because they are assisting with tea, water, and other school activities.  I am meeting with the Head Teacher and Director next week and will raise that concern.  In speaking to a medical doctor today he said, “Women are objects here.”  It may be a slight exaggeration but just slight.  Our school is committed to gender equality but it is a slow process when moving against a strong culture.

Students were told not to come to Pan Door for computer today because they should be studying for exams which start Monday. However, several showed up, and if you know me very well, you know I let them stay.  They are getting better and better so able to help each other.  I am just there when they go somewhere they did not intend to go and can’t get back.  We have no internet at Pan Door so this is just familiarity with the key board, document creation, spreadsheets, etc.

But good news – the internet is installed at the internet café and the technician is going back to Juba tomorrow.  The electrician started today to install the solar power.  I want to have the technology student team meet at the internet café at least once before I leave next Friday so they can set up gmail accounts for themselves and then be able to teach the other students to do the same.

Can I just say it – it is really hot here!  I believe it got to around 100 both yesterday and today.  Dry heat or not, it is hot!  And this is supposed to be easing into their cool season….