It is break time when we arrive at the school. A crowd of children approaches us curiously, but most of them are absorbed in what they are doing and don't even notice us. Children and teachers are on the move, some jumping rope, others playing ball or frisbee. I am pleased to notice the pleasant atmosphere on the grounds.
One group attracts my attention: Micha, one of the Maasai teachers of the Swahili preschool class, is dancing with full verve with some children to the music that sounds from a small transistor he is holding in his hands. I join in, dancing along, which I don't quite manage to do smoothly and makes some of the children laugh heartily.
I meet our two new teachers, Anni and Yusta. They have been here since January, the start of the new school year, and have already settled in well. While Yusta is shy towards me, I quickly strike up a conversation with Anni. -
Of all our teachers, Anni shows the best leadership qualities. Kaira will therefore ask Anni on his next visit to Engaruka if she can imagine taking over the leadership of our growing school.
Jack, our Australian volunteer, who has already experienced other "projects" before, gives us some suggestions for our "Eramatare School" and overall positive feedback, which makes me very happy. After all, we are doing all this for the first time!
I enter the teachers' and volunteers' accommodation. It is simple, but quite cosy. A fan makes the heat bearable, and recently grills have been installed to keep the flies out. How dusty this area is can be seen from the recently delivered photocopier that has been parked here. A protective cover is needed, and we also need stronger electricity to operate it... There is always something to do!
I meet our cooks in the shade of an acacia tree. In the morning, the children get a cup full of porridge, which Kaira has mixed from different types of cereals at the Arusha market to prevent deficiencies. Since the food supply is very tight due to the ongoing drought in this region, we also cook a bean and maize stew for lunch. This way the children go home full.
A few children gather around us and spontaneously sing a song in English. I am happy to hear them, because the beginning here is challenging for everyone: the children speak Maa(sai), the teachers Swahili and English. The language of instruction is English. At the same time, the children first have to learn to read and write... Quite a lot at once.
The fact that two of the children were in tears when we left touched me deeply. -
We continue to work with enthusiasm and invite you to be a part of us! Together we will create a really good school!
P.S.: We are urgently looking for people who are willing to support the running of the school with a monthly donation! A full sponsorship is € 40,- per month. Whether lower or higher, we are happy about any amount! Thank you!