Tricia's Rwandan Adventures: A New Year 2013...

Happy New Year for 2013

A new dawn

Is the photo familiar? If you have been following this blog you should recognise Gitarama at dawn with the early morning bus at the bus park.The news is that I am back in Rwanda and working for VSO until the end of April 2013. My intention was to finish my contract on February 14th but unfortunately there is no replacement volunteer for me until April, so I agreed to 'fill the gap'. I sincerely hope she can come in April. My contract finishes on April 30th and I am cannot extend again. It is sooo important for work to be continued until it is sustainable by the local community - this work is almost at that point because there are so many capable people in education circles here in Rwanda now.

So, why should you volunteer?

Yes - there is all the stuff about 'making a difference' and 'sharing skills' and ' helping to alleviate the effects of poverty' etc - and all these things are true, but the real benefits come from actually living in another culture for a length of time. Over the past two years I have become a small part of this community and the advantages have been entirely mutual!

The view on the way to work? How does it compare to yours?

When I went home to the UK for the Christmas holidays I was really concerned by the unhappiness of many people in their work- life and the difficulties faced because of long hours, horrible traffic jams and brutal expectations from employers. I know that many people have no choice but to stick it out in health destroying situations, but some do have a choice!!

If you have been undecided about volunteering but in your heart of hearts this is something you would really like to do 'when the time is right' please may I urge you to think seriously about it now.If you are coming to the end of your career it is a wonderful way of completing your work life - the icing on the cake and very very satisfying. If you are at the beginning of your career - maybe 3 years of experience in education- it is an amazing opportunity for developing your skills and your confidence. Many, many young teachers go on from VSO into really interesting jobs either back in their home country or worldwide. In the mid career situation and getting jaded/frustrated with paperwork? Take a break. It is still possible to get secondments from your paid post.

On my way to school...

Parents' Meeting

The parents here are so supportive of education for their children. The children want to learn and work hard. The teachers and headteachers are desperate for training.I hope you will consider it carefully, it will change your understanding of the world!