Tuesday – We Are!

I observed two classes today and reported my observations to the Head Teacher Samuel.  He asked me to share my observations with those particular teachers as well so I will do that.  We were supposed to meet with the Governor this morning but let’s just say he had “double booked” so we are scheduled again tomorrow morning.  That may not happen either but he is supposed to come to our big party tomorrow.  We will see.

Speaking of the big party, let me tell you what I know about it.  Independence Day here is in July but the students at Abukloi like to celebrate it when a Board member is present so they will celebrate tomorrow.  There are no classes in the morning (in fact, the students were sent home a bit early today to have time to wash their uniforms) and people are to gather at the school around 2.  There will be music, dancing, conversation, speaking, dignitaries, and more.  In addition to the governor, some of the tribal chiefs are expected.  They are very grateful for the school and want to express their appreciation.  

The primary food is one of the cows given to one of our female students as part of the dowry she received when recently married.  The female students were busy today making last minute arrangements and practicing their songs and dances.  The student who wrote the school song will sing it live.  We will take video and share later what we can on the website.  It promises to be a great day.

Director Justin had another football (soccer) game today.  He scored a goal and their team won again.  We chose not to go – just too hot today.  About 60 students came to Pan Door again this afternoon for computer science.  We had them practicing the key board using a program on the computers.  They really enjoyed it.  Several of the students are incredibly fast learners and will serve as trainers for the other students.  The internet continues to be a work in progress as parts not yet purchased are being sought.  Nothing here happens fast.

There is a small black fruit on one of the trees in Pan Door.  The students were eating them and had me try one.  They say it tastes like Coke and has medicinal benefits.  When they could no longer reach them (some of our students are 6-6 so they have quite a reach) one of them climbed the tree and began to shake the branches.  Many of these grape-size black fruits fell to the ground.  I wasn’t sure Pan Door would appreciate their behavior but for students still recovering from a starvation season, it was fun to see them gather handfuls of good food.

I was sitting with several students and teachers today.  Our school, as you know, is called Abukloi.  Abukloi is a native Dinka word for “we can”.  They told me that is no longer their name.  They are now called “we are”!