Hey Everyone!
It's been exactly 1 month to the day since the last update after the great event at Sunningdale. I returned to Canada at the beginning of May and have been pretty busy settling in since then. I'm looking for jobs at the moment, but am focusing on Sud Academy and the Boys as well. Lots of people are interested in becoming involved, helping to fundraise, donating funds or even going to Nairobi themselves! I am inspired by all the feedback, and am excited to be doing some talks at local high schools next week. I want to get some youth on board with the projects and see what fresh ideas might be lurking in the halls. I've talked to the boys a few times since returning, and other than missing me, they are ok ;-)! School's moving on, 4 of 6 are in boarding, and the other 2 will be boarding next term. We found some of them medical attention (I hear!) so they are well fed, rested, studying hard and (getting) healthy. For those of you in London area, I hope to see you at the Black Trumpet event on June 14th between 4-8pm. Let's raise some serious cash and build Sud into a school that we'd all be proud of. Let me leave you with an idea from a very wise, British politician, Sir Winston Churchill:
" We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give."
May 21, 2009
Apr 21, 2009
Rays of Sunshine After Sunningdale Fundraiser
Well good friends- I am very happy to report that after the hard work of my mom Susan, and her amazing volunteer committee, her April 15th event “Wardrobe Disaster to Fashion Master” was a huge success in raising nearly $4,000 for Sud Academy and the Form 4 Boys, my two projects here in Nairobi!
This comes just in the nick of time, as I am set to leave Kenya and venture back across the ocean to the homeland, exactly one week from today! April 28th will be a sad day for me, as well as my “rafikis” (Swahili for friend) here in Nairobi. I will be able to feel good about what we have provided these 6 boys in their final year, and the assistance we’ve given to Sud Academy, a little school that has big dreams. But it is important to remember, it doesn’t end here. On the contrary, I am just getting my sleeves rolled up! Upon returning home, I will continue to work for these special students, and I will hope that all of you will join me in raising awareness, rallying others, or helping contribute to these causes.
Yesterday, I spent the day at Sud Academy going over prospective policies with the headmaster, Ojok Bosco. I told the 6 boys I’d be going there (most live in the area, I do not), and all of them showed up to hang out with me! I was so truly excited to see each one stroll in on his own, give big hugs and most importantly- deliver the news that we’d raised enough money to cover the costs of providing breakfast and also board in Term 3 when they will be studying round the clock for their exams. They were so excited and all demanded to speak with my mum, to say thanks for her work and to let her know how appreciative they are (of everyone in Canada, really…)
In the rain, we walked to the market from school to get the process started of buying Agostino’s uniforms and shoes. Success! -- We found a nice quality pair that looked smart and felt durable. Their school is on holiday until after I leave, so I will be meeting their principal in town this week to deliver the rest of the money with instructions to take care of my precious boys! They don’t understand how it’s possible that I am leaving them now- they say I must stay, and I tell them that unless they can hire me and pay me a salary, I must leave in search of what they have been graced with- $$$! They nod sadly, but don’t really give up with their pleas. They say, “Do you promise you will never forget us? Because we will never forget you, for all our life, we won’t forget Kellee from Canada.” Nor will they forget all the people who have helped me, help them. What a win-win experience this has been for all of us. Giving truly is rewarding.
As for Sud Academy, I am having a series of meetings this week. Most of them are to inform others of things that need work, things that are going well, and people/organizations here in Nairobi who are willing to lend a helping hand to the school. I am disappointed that I will not get to be here to help them implement their new policies and to continue building up the school into one that is effective, sustainable and with room to grow. I am relieved that we now have 2 board members who are eager and willing to keep an eye on the school, and help out with making bridges in the community. There are also some organizations that have invited the teachers to workshops that will help them build on their teaching skills, and most importantly, teach them how to work with refugee children. A similar organization has suggested the students participate in other workshops designed to build trust and understanding between people from different tribes. We haven’t really been successful in finding funding in Kenya- for that, I have realized it will take a permanent person here on the ground here, to facilitate the complicated process. I wish that I could have done more in this regard, but the time will come when we get the school enough funds to really blossom. I am confident of this because I have seen, and many have demonstrated, how much Canadians care when they are told this wonderful story of survival and hope.
To those who have supported the school and the boys thus far- I really cannot overstate how much of an impact we are making. It is big. It is real. And it is so exciting to think that we can do so much more. With my blog as a megaphone, I have managed to spread the word. I feel lucky that those words have fallen on open ears, open minds and open hearts. I am so anxious to see where we can take this, and I’m pumped that y’all are along for the ride! It’s now a lifelong commitment and it’s one I am so glad I’ve made.
In Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, a character says:
“I hold the world but as the world, Gratiano,
A stage where every man must play a part,
And mine a sad one.”
So- what is your part in this grandiose play, performed in a series of acts, on this, the global stage?
************************************************************
This comes just in the nick of time, as I am set to leave Kenya and venture back across the ocean to the homeland, exactly one week from today! April 28th will be a sad day for me, as well as my “rafikis” (Swahili for friend) here in Nairobi. I will be able to feel good about what we have provided these 6 boys in their final year, and the assistance we’ve given to Sud Academy, a little school that has big dreams. But it is important to remember, it doesn’t end here. On the contrary, I am just getting my sleeves rolled up! Upon returning home, I will continue to work for these special students, and I will hope that all of you will join me in raising awareness, rallying others, or helping contribute to these causes.
Yesterday, I spent the day at Sud Academy going over prospective policies with the headmaster, Ojok Bosco. I told the 6 boys I’d be going there (most live in the area, I do not), and all of them showed up to hang out with me! I was so truly excited to see each one stroll in on his own, give big hugs and most importantly- deliver the news that we’d raised enough money to cover the costs of providing breakfast and also board in Term 3 when they will be studying round the clock for their exams. They were so excited and all demanded to speak with my mum, to say thanks for her work and to let her know how appreciative they are (of everyone in Canada, really…)
In the rain, we walked to the market from school to get the process started of buying Agostino’s uniforms and shoes. Success! -- We found a nice quality pair that looked smart and felt durable. Their school is on holiday until after I leave, so I will be meeting their principal in town this week to deliver the rest of the money with instructions to take care of my precious boys! They don’t understand how it’s possible that I am leaving them now- they say I must stay, and I tell them that unless they can hire me and pay me a salary, I must leave in search of what they have been graced with- $$$! They nod sadly, but don’t really give up with their pleas. They say, “Do you promise you will never forget us? Because we will never forget you, for all our life, we won’t forget Kellee from Canada.” Nor will they forget all the people who have helped me, help them. What a win-win experience this has been for all of us. Giving truly is rewarding.
As for Sud Academy, I am having a series of meetings this week. Most of them are to inform others of things that need work, things that are going well, and people/organizations here in Nairobi who are willing to lend a helping hand to the school. I am disappointed that I will not get to be here to help them implement their new policies and to continue building up the school into one that is effective, sustainable and with room to grow. I am relieved that we now have 2 board members who are eager and willing to keep an eye on the school, and help out with making bridges in the community. There are also some organizations that have invited the teachers to workshops that will help them build on their teaching skills, and most importantly, teach them how to work with refugee children. A similar organization has suggested the students participate in other workshops designed to build trust and understanding between people from different tribes. We haven’t really been successful in finding funding in Kenya- for that, I have realized it will take a permanent person here on the ground here, to facilitate the complicated process. I wish that I could have done more in this regard, but the time will come when we get the school enough funds to really blossom. I am confident of this because I have seen, and many have demonstrated, how much Canadians care when they are told this wonderful story of survival and hope.
To those who have supported the school and the boys thus far- I really cannot overstate how much of an impact we are making. It is big. It is real. And it is so exciting to think that we can do so much more. With my blog as a megaphone, I have managed to spread the word. I feel lucky that those words have fallen on open ears, open minds and open hearts. I am so anxious to see where we can take this, and I’m pumped that y’all are along for the ride! It’s now a lifelong commitment and it’s one I am so glad I’ve made.
In Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, a character says:
“I hold the world but as the world, Gratiano,
A stage where every man must play a part,
And mine a sad one.”
So- what is your part in this grandiose play, performed in a series of acts, on this, the global stage?
************************************************************
Apr 3, 2009
Moving Along..
Well it's been a while since I last updated everyone on the progress of the boys and Sud. I have continued to visit the Form 4 boys a couple times a week to make sure they are doing well, studying hard, and behaving themselves. Teachers inform me it has been difficult for them to catch up on what they missed, but that they have all put in extra time and are willing and determined to do well. I have continued encouraging the boys to get extra help and to stay focused- they don't really need it as they are already self-driven, but I think it helps them along to have some positive reinforcement! They've taken to calling me their "mum" so I guess it's now my responsibility to act as a mother would!
Sud Academy is also doing well- the school closed yesterday (as did the boys school) for a holiday of a couple weeks, but the students have the option of going back for some extra lessons from their teachers, and they are eager to do so. I am working on putting together videos, pictures, speeches and information about Sud Academy and the story of the 5+1 Form 4 boys. I hope to be done within a week and will post it for viewing after it airs at a fundraising event in Canada on April 15.
Funding for Agostino, the 6th Form 4 to need help with school fees, has not yet come in. For this reason, I can't really report anything about him other than he still requires some financial help and is looking forward to continuing his education. He is very keen and often whisks by me at school to run to class, study sessions or extra lessons with teachers on their rest breaks. Anyone interested in helping is encouraged to do so! :-)
I will write again soon as things happen... for now, I am continuing with building bridges, making friends on behalf of Sud Academy, and doing research on the challenges and issues facing the students' homeland of Southern Sudan.
Happy long weekend coming up in Canada...
Sud Academy is also doing well- the school closed yesterday (as did the boys school) for a holiday of a couple weeks, but the students have the option of going back for some extra lessons from their teachers, and they are eager to do so. I am working on putting together videos, pictures, speeches and information about Sud Academy and the story of the 5+1 Form 4 boys. I hope to be done within a week and will post it for viewing after it airs at a fundraising event in Canada on April 15.
Funding for Agostino, the 6th Form 4 to need help with school fees, has not yet come in. For this reason, I can't really report anything about him other than he still requires some financial help and is looking forward to continuing his education. He is very keen and often whisks by me at school to run to class, study sessions or extra lessons with teachers on their rest breaks. Anyone interested in helping is encouraged to do so! :-)
I will write again soon as things happen... for now, I am continuing with building bridges, making friends on behalf of Sud Academy, and doing research on the challenges and issues facing the students' homeland of Southern Sudan.
Happy long weekend coming up in Canada...
Mar 17, 2009
Dut Agostino-- 5 Boys + 1 Hopeful
YouTube Update: check out the new "movie" I made! A collection of videos showing the joy we are providing to the Form 4 boys..... Music makes everything in life better.
<<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rcnoj0EOtAE>>
**************************************************
“I am appealing to all Sudanese’s friends, well wishers, and donors to give me the assistance to complete my Form 4 class. I promise that I will do well, better than local Kenyan friends. I will also fulfill my childhood dream of becoming a neurosurgeon or alternatively, a computer technology career. It will be a pleasure to see a nice event in the footprint at the sand of your time for developing me. I hope I will make you smile big when I perform well in exams, and that is the only way of saying thank you so much for developing me. I am in a jovial mood.”
***************
That is an excerpt from a letter about his life that I asked Agostino to write. It describes his journey from Sudan to Northern Kenya, and finally to here in Nairobi. He is an extremely intelligent student, and was the top student at Sud Academy when he was there. In January when I started with the other Form 4 boys, I mistakenly thought that he had found funding to complete his high school career- he has been sponsored in the past because of his high performance levels. When I ran into him a couple weeks ago, I asked why he wasn’t in class and he said he had been going but hiding from the administration because he couldn’t pay his fees. He looked much thinner than he did in December when I taught him for 4 weeks, and I asked if he was ok. He smiled and said “life is very hard these days.” He asked if I could lend him his exam registration fee last week, because the deadline was approaching and a failure to register means no exit exam at the end of 2009. Without writing the exam, you cannot claim you’ve graduated high school. When I agreed to pay this ~$100 fee, his reaction was shocking and moving. With tears in his eyes and his hands shaking, he hid his face in his sweater and kept repeating, “thank you so much Kellee, thank you, thank you… you are blessing my life, I am so appreciative, I promise to do well, thank you…” I was taken aback, saddened and then immediately decided that THIS would be my next responsibility. With a little financial help, Agostino will be on the fast track to success- I would bet my own Queen’s University degree on it.
**********************************************************
"Hi Kellee, yesterday was a nice day, you made me proud, I walk tall in class, I relief stresses. Cheers from Agostino"... text message I received while writing this post. I met with his principal yesterday and hung out with the boys all day at school.
**********************************************************
Not that it is the reason I am here and helping these boys, but it is one of the rarest and sweetest things I have experienced this far in life, knowing and seeing that together, we are really helping people. It isn’t just throwing money at a problem, which I am very critical of in developing countries. With these education sponsorships, we are providing these boys with something immaterial & intangible, something that cannot be bought, and that will stay with them and imply every day of their life from here on out. Their joy and their appreciation make everything worth it. I am really grateful to all those who’ve donated already, every time I see the boys I know in my heart that we have all made the right decision to make small sacrifices in order to provide big rewards. I hope that we can fundraise enough to pay the rest of Agostinos fees. He is a remarkable boy and deserves this tremendously. Thank you for reading this emotional message.
Mar 12, 2009
Mandazi in the Morning- Form 4's Ask for Breakfast
Video: Mandazi in the Morning
(New video recorded at Riruta Central on March 11. The boys and I explain to all of YOU what Kenyans eat for breakfast everyday, and what the boys hope to be able to enjoy soon....
<<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1x69b-a218&feature=channel_page>>
Pictures: Mandazi in the Making- Yum Yum (down below)
They told me back in January that they had no breakfast- at that time, paying tuition and uniforms were the top priorities, but with that taken care of thanks to the abundant generosity of some socially concerned Canadians, we are looking ahead to some other, more minor concerns the boys have.
One of these issues is the lack of food- Kenya right now is going through a food shortage, and some international NGOs have even classified it a famine. The cost of staple foods has more than doubled over the last year- imagine if you went to the grocer in London, Ontario and 3 litres of milk had gone from $3.99 to $7.99. Would your household find it more difficult to budget and put food on the table? Now imagine that the $3.99 was nearly impossible to begin with, and that the new price is simply more than you have. You don't buy milk. You can't buy cereal either. All you can afford is bread, but certainly not the butter to put on it. Even this dire circumstance would still be better than the one Manyok, Francis, Lino, Kuot and Dennis find themselves in. Last year I always used to exclaim to my boyfriend "Oh man, this sucks, I have no money"- but that didn't mean I had ZERO dollars. Maybe it meant I had $100 for the week and that other than the basics, I couldn't afford to buy anything superfluous.
But when I ask the boys "why don't you eat breakfast, why do you wear your school shoes on the weekend, why can't you take the bus to the clinic to get your malaria results?", they reply with a embarrassed smile and their eyes fixed on the ground, "I have no money"- and it doesn't mean they can't afford those as a priority, it means they literally have no money. So, the boys and I decided that if any more funds come in for their cause, the main priority would be to buy breakfast every day. This will cost about 8cents/boy Canadian per day- every day for the whole year, all 5 boys can eat Mandazi (like a donut, but not sweet) for only $120. Given that studies show people perform better when they have food in their stomach, I feel this is a necessary component to their successful education. I hope some other people feel the same and that these boys- who never ask directly for money- get to enjoy a small breakfast before they settle into class each morning. Thank you to all you who have donated thus far- the boys are ecstatic about their good fortunes already, as am
I as their new "adoptive" mum (haha!).
(New video recorded at Riruta Central on March 11. The boys and I explain to all of YOU what Kenyans eat for breakfast everyday, and what the boys hope to be able to enjoy soon....
<<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1x69b-a218&feature=channel_page>>
Pictures: Mandazi in the Making- Yum Yum (down below)
They told me back in January that they had no breakfast- at that time, paying tuition and uniforms were the top priorities, but with that taken care of thanks to the abundant generosity of some socially concerned Canadians, we are looking ahead to some other, more minor concerns the boys have.
One of these issues is the lack of food- Kenya right now is going through a food shortage, and some international NGOs have even classified it a famine. The cost of staple foods has more than doubled over the last year- imagine if you went to the grocer in London, Ontario and 3 litres of milk had gone from $3.99 to $7.99. Would your household find it more difficult to budget and put food on the table? Now imagine that the $3.99 was nearly impossible to begin with, and that the new price is simply more than you have. You don't buy milk. You can't buy cereal either. All you can afford is bread, but certainly not the butter to put on it. Even this dire circumstance would still be better than the one Manyok, Francis, Lino, Kuot and Dennis find themselves in. Last year I always used to exclaim to my boyfriend "Oh man, this sucks, I have no money"- but that didn't mean I had ZERO dollars. Maybe it meant I had $100 for the week and that other than the basics, I couldn't afford to buy anything superfluous.
But when I ask the boys "why don't you eat breakfast, why do you wear your school shoes on the weekend, why can't you take the bus to the clinic to get your malaria results?", they reply with a embarrassed smile and their eyes fixed on the ground, "I have no money"- and it doesn't mean they can't afford those as a priority, it means they literally have no money. So, the boys and I decided that if any more funds come in for their cause, the main priority would be to buy breakfast every day. This will cost about 8cents/boy Canadian per day- every day for the whole year, all 5 boys can eat Mandazi (like a donut, but not sweet) for only $120. Given that studies show people perform better when they have food in their stomach, I feel this is a necessary component to their successful education. I hope some other people feel the same and that these boys- who never ask directly for money- get to enjoy a small breakfast before they settle into class each morning. Thank you to all you who have donated thus far- the boys are ecstatic about their good fortunes already, as am
I as their new "adoptive" mum (haha!).
Mar 10, 2009
My Recent Article in Sudan Mirror
This article was published in the week of Feb. 23/09, and is the first in a series by me on Education in Southern Sudan. The Sudan Mirror is an independent newspaper serving Southern Sudan that is printed in Nairobi and flown into Sudan bi-weekly. It is written in English, but is also translated into Arabic for those in Northern Sudan. While circulation in Sudan is small, between 10- 20 000, one copy is often read by an entire village. Stay tuned for more articles to come!
“Beyond the waters of the Nile, oil and minerals, Southern Sudan has a precious- an infinite- natural resource: the minds, the determination and the potential of her people, especially her children” Rita Salah of UNICEF, 2006
As it stands today, Southern Sudan and her people are in dire need of the formation of a sustainable, qualified, comprehensive and accessible education system. While the construction of such a system might borrow its materials and ideas from a variety of existing systems throughout Africa and the world, it is necessary to look at the more abstract issues of education in the South- where will qualified teachers come from? Why is there a lack of qualified teachers that return to rural areas? What roles should NGOs and the GoSS (Government of Southern Sudan) play in the disbursement of knowledge? Who should be included in targeted educational programs, and what kinds of things should be taught? While all the answers may not be apparent, these questions need serious consideration before a system is committed to.
While there are many explanations and theories on the meaning of education, Eric Hoffer, a 20th century American philosopher offers a description that is acutely relevant to Southern Sudan: “The central task of education is to implant a will and facility for learning; it should produce not learned but learning people. The truly human society is a learning society, where grandparents, parents, and children are students together.”In the context of a new Sudan, it is important to remember that society is advanced when it’s members work together to question the existing system, and build on it where it needs change. Fundamental change, as we know from US President Barack Obama, is sometimes the only way to overcome our most pressing dilemmas. This requires not just the memorization of facts or the strict teacher-to-student lecture style that is present in some African countries- it demands a critically thinking population that is ready to ask tough questions and come up with reasonable solutions.
A typical school in Southern Sudan
It is becoming clear that the motivation of some Sudanese to be educated might be one of self-interest. Several Sudanese who complete post-secondary studies and courses are drawn to jobs at NGO’s or private sector positions, simply because they offer attractive salaries, not to mention a wide variety of bonuses- cars, big offices, and a sense of power. Most of these jobs are unfortunately located in urban areas, and often out of Sudan altogether, while most citizens in the South live in small, rural areas. While some do indeed return with a heart to impart knowledge on the students, they often don’t last long and are lured into these lucrative positions with their fellow learned graduates. Local schools and smaller villages suffer from this phenomenon called “Brain Drain”, where the top minds in a given region or country leave to pursue their own interests (often due to financial incentives and a greater quality of life). It is a serious problem that is affecting the prospect of quality and sustainable education in the South, but as Andrea Naletto of Norwegian Refugee Council says, it’s understandable- “who in their right mind would leave Kakuma for [Sudan] to work for free?” But, you might ask, shouldn’t the desire to serve ones people trump any financial motive? Should not education be focused on community service and the empowerment of generations of citizens, to enable them to take the future into their own hands, with the knowledge to do so?
It is true that foreign NGOs have had immeasurable positive influences on development in Southern Sudan, but it might be coming at a high cost and inflicting indirect harm to the creation and continuation of small, un-aided schools. Why not supplement and assist these schools in paying their teachers comparable salaries to those schools under NGO supervision and sponsorship? This would allow for a dispersal of education, rather than a small concentration of schools in a few select areas. Access to education is key if there is to be a remotely equal development across the South.
This accessibility needs to be granted to a greater percentage of the population, across a wide spectrum of demographics. United Nations Population Fund statistics show that while 37% of Southern Sudanese men are literate, a mere 12% of women can claim the same. Thousands if not millions of studies have been done that show the education of women benefits everyone in a variety of ways, as listed by Farzaneh Roudi-Fahimi and Valentine M. Moghadam in “Empowering Women, Developing Society”; child mortality rates fall, family health improves, personal and national economic growth increases, children of educated mothers are more likely to enroll in and succeed in educational pursuits, and poverty is reduced in general. Whatever the winning system, the government needs to ensure that gender equality- that is, the participation of girls and boys, men and women- is present. This is especially crucial given that there are twice as many women as men in the South as a result of war.
It has been said that when you teach a man a skill, you are teaching only him to use it. But when you teach a mother a skill, you are indirectly developing the knowledge of a whole family, and their subsequent children. The need to educate Southern Sudan’s adults is clear- the knowledge they receive will trickle down to new generations. It creates an entire population, including those from different age groups, genders and experiences, that has a cohesive and clear direction forward in unity. While some adult education centres exist with the help of foreign and local NGOs, the GoSS will need to develop some adult learning strategies and a policy of inclusion for all who wish to learn.
Any government initiative to establish an effective and lasting educational framework for the South must also include the establishment of teacher support programs, problem-solving workshops and continuing education courses or centres. The creation of these types of educational supplements will encourage and equip teachers to remain in rural areas, with the confidence and the knowledge to back up their positions as educators. It is also imperative that culturally relevant information is disseminated to the general population in interesting, comprehensive and universal ways. In addition to formal education, the population needs civic education or technical training in areas of agriculture, health & sanitation, small business management, and in areas of human rights and the process of government. Through books, plays, radio shows, pamphlets, newspapers or demonstrations, it is up to the GoSS to develop its population into knowledgeable people in control of their own destinies. Only then will the exploitation and extreme poverty cease to dictate the lives of those in the region.
“Beyond the waters of the Nile, oil and minerals, Southern Sudan has a precious- an infinite- natural resource: the minds, the determination and the potential of her people, especially her children” Rita Salah of UNICEF, 2006
As it stands today, Southern Sudan and her people are in dire need of the formation of a sustainable, qualified, comprehensive and accessible education system. While the construction of such a system might borrow its materials and ideas from a variety of existing systems throughout Africa and the world, it is necessary to look at the more abstract issues of education in the South- where will qualified teachers come from? Why is there a lack of qualified teachers that return to rural areas? What roles should NGOs and the GoSS (Government of Southern Sudan) play in the disbursement of knowledge? Who should be included in targeted educational programs, and what kinds of things should be taught? While all the answers may not be apparent, these questions need serious consideration before a system is committed to.
While there are many explanations and theories on the meaning of education, Eric Hoffer, a 20th century American philosopher offers a description that is acutely relevant to Southern Sudan: “The central task of education is to implant a will and facility for learning; it should produce not learned but learning people. The truly human society is a learning society, where grandparents, parents, and children are students together.”In the context of a new Sudan, it is important to remember that society is advanced when it’s members work together to question the existing system, and build on it where it needs change. Fundamental change, as we know from US President Barack Obama, is sometimes the only way to overcome our most pressing dilemmas. This requires not just the memorization of facts or the strict teacher-to-student lecture style that is present in some African countries- it demands a critically thinking population that is ready to ask tough questions and come up with reasonable solutions.
A typical school in Southern Sudan
It is becoming clear that the motivation of some Sudanese to be educated might be one of self-interest. Several Sudanese who complete post-secondary studies and courses are drawn to jobs at NGO’s or private sector positions, simply because they offer attractive salaries, not to mention a wide variety of bonuses- cars, big offices, and a sense of power. Most of these jobs are unfortunately located in urban areas, and often out of Sudan altogether, while most citizens in the South live in small, rural areas. While some do indeed return with a heart to impart knowledge on the students, they often don’t last long and are lured into these lucrative positions with their fellow learned graduates. Local schools and smaller villages suffer from this phenomenon called “Brain Drain”, where the top minds in a given region or country leave to pursue their own interests (often due to financial incentives and a greater quality of life). It is a serious problem that is affecting the prospect of quality and sustainable education in the South, but as Andrea Naletto of Norwegian Refugee Council says, it’s understandable- “who in their right mind would leave Kakuma for [Sudan] to work for free?” But, you might ask, shouldn’t the desire to serve ones people trump any financial motive? Should not education be focused on community service and the empowerment of generations of citizens, to enable them to take the future into their own hands, with the knowledge to do so?
It is true that foreign NGOs have had immeasurable positive influences on development in Southern Sudan, but it might be coming at a high cost and inflicting indirect harm to the creation and continuation of small, un-aided schools. Why not supplement and assist these schools in paying their teachers comparable salaries to those schools under NGO supervision and sponsorship? This would allow for a dispersal of education, rather than a small concentration of schools in a few select areas. Access to education is key if there is to be a remotely equal development across the South.
This accessibility needs to be granted to a greater percentage of the population, across a wide spectrum of demographics. United Nations Population Fund statistics show that while 37% of Southern Sudanese men are literate, a mere 12% of women can claim the same. Thousands if not millions of studies have been done that show the education of women benefits everyone in a variety of ways, as listed by Farzaneh Roudi-Fahimi and Valentine M. Moghadam in “Empowering Women, Developing Society”; child mortality rates fall, family health improves, personal and national economic growth increases, children of educated mothers are more likely to enroll in and succeed in educational pursuits, and poverty is reduced in general. Whatever the winning system, the government needs to ensure that gender equality- that is, the participation of girls and boys, men and women- is present. This is especially crucial given that there are twice as many women as men in the South as a result of war.
It has been said that when you teach a man a skill, you are teaching only him to use it. But when you teach a mother a skill, you are indirectly developing the knowledge of a whole family, and their subsequent children. The need to educate Southern Sudan’s adults is clear- the knowledge they receive will trickle down to new generations. It creates an entire population, including those from different age groups, genders and experiences, that has a cohesive and clear direction forward in unity. While some adult education centres exist with the help of foreign and local NGOs, the GoSS will need to develop some adult learning strategies and a policy of inclusion for all who wish to learn.
Any government initiative to establish an effective and lasting educational framework for the South must also include the establishment of teacher support programs, problem-solving workshops and continuing education courses or centres. The creation of these types of educational supplements will encourage and equip teachers to remain in rural areas, with the confidence and the knowledge to back up their positions as educators. It is also imperative that culturally relevant information is disseminated to the general population in interesting, comprehensive and universal ways. In addition to formal education, the population needs civic education or technical training in areas of agriculture, health & sanitation, small business management, and in areas of human rights and the process of government. Through books, plays, radio shows, pamphlets, newspapers or demonstrations, it is up to the GoSS to develop its population into knowledgeable people in control of their own destinies. Only then will the exploitation and extreme poverty cease to dictate the lives of those in the region.
Mar 7, 2009
Routine Saturday Market Visit
Today we went to the market- again! Rather than tell you about it, watch the video on YouTube!!! here's the link....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4olTzfWcvoo&feature=channel_page
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4olTzfWcvoo&feature=channel_page
Mar 6, 2009
FINALLY--- I Uploaded Videos!!!
Hello everyone- I finally found a fast enough internet connection to upload some video. Since I hadn't discovered this earlier, I am left with only random videos, as I had to delete the other ones to make space on my camera!! Here is a sample, my long commute to Sud Academy, and you can find the others on the left side of this page in the "Video Bar". I will be shooting and adding more soon!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-Bp2qw4-WM&feature=channel_page
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-Bp2qw4-WM&feature=channel_page
Mar 4, 2009
Sudan's President Under Arrest at ICC for Crimes Against Humanity, Genocide in Darfur
This is a link to today's article on the arrest warrant and charges laid upon Sudan's President, Omar al-Bashir. He is being charged with crimes against humanity and war crimes for ordering the extermination of 3 tribes in Sudan's Darfur region in 2003. He and his government thugs deny the charges and the extremity of the situation in Darfur, saying they will ignore the "neo-colonialist" attempts of Westerners interfering in the political business of a sovereign state.
Feb 28, 2009
Kickin' it at Kawangware Market
This Saturday was spent with my boys (principal calls me their "Mama") at the market, getting things like soap, pens, shoe polish, a few extra text books, some graph paper, padlocks for lockers and a calculator- exactly the kinds of things high school kids love to shop for on the weekend ;)... We also got Francis, Lino and Kuot some shiny new shoes!!! Theirs were broken and dirty, and they get scolded from their principal if they are not clean and proper looking at school. Abraham and Dennis will get theirs next week as they couldn't come with us today. In the photo, they have one old and one new shoe on- they were embarrassed that they looked silly while mine were matching... Oh- on a scary sidenote, we were approached at one point by a group of men and boys begging for money. I quickened my pace but looked back to see one of the men opening his coat to Lino, who was reaching for a coin- the only one he had, equaling 15 cents- from his pocket. He later told me the man showed him knives and threatened to kill him and "the white lady" if he didn't pay up. YIKES. Market trips and haggling for cheap shoes suddenly became less exciting.... this is me, Kuot and Lino. 
Feb 27, 2009
The View from Up Here: Not All It's Cracked Up To Be
[Link to gallery also included in "Educate Yourself" section of blog on left of webpage for future reference]
Here is a link to a collection of photos of Northern Sudan- while different in religion, language, skin colour and culture from Southern Sudan, it seems the Government of Sudan (run by Muslim Northerners and located in Khartoum, capital city of Northern Sudan) is still failing, even in providing for its own, like-minded citizens in the North. The international community must ask itself why, when we are told by the news-media that the North and South are fighting over religious and ethnic lines, those in power continue to suppress the people they profess to support? It is a sad state of affairs across the board in Africa- we must be careful not to believe any one-sided version of events. From the ground, nothing is ever as simple as it seems.
Feb 25, 2009
Check out my links bar!
Hey-o...
In case you haven't already looked, there is a box on the left side of the page with some links to articles about Sud Academy, CASS, and some interesting articles related to Sudan.... I just added one about the sexy Mr. Clooney meeting with the sexy Mr. Obama... if only we were all celebrities, maybe there would be more peace on our Earth. For now, we'll settle for Angelina and George.
In case you haven't already looked, there is a box on the left side of the page with some links to articles about Sud Academy, CASS, and some interesting articles related to Sudan.... I just added one about the sexy Mr. Clooney meeting with the sexy Mr. Obama... if only we were all celebrities, maybe there would be more peace on our Earth. For now, we'll settle for Angelina and George.
Feb 14, 2009
At Long Last.... A Bright Future
[Scroll down to see pictures below!]
Well- Friday the 13th marked not a scary or spooky day for the 5 Form 4 boys here in Nairobi, but one of a secure future and a year ahead that's lookin' as good as they do! When Francis (bottom right) first came into the office to hand me a receipt for the last payment, I was taken aback by how sharp and "smart", as they say here in Kenya, he was looking. I exclaimed, "Ah, look at you in your uniform, you look so smart Francis!", perhaps to his embarassment and the principal's amusement. "Their trousers have been tailored and now they are all set in their uniforms" he informed me. Perfect I said- now on to the learning.
I arrived on Friday to pay the remaining fees- Term 2 tuitions, national exam fees, and holiday tuition fees. It was lunch time, which consisted of shredded cabbage and carrots, boiled with corriander, and a potato-like corn meal they call "ugali". It didn't look overly yummy to me, but the boys were beaming and seemed pleased with the big portions senior boys are given. Abraham hadn't eaten and was anxious to get to his food- they tell me they don't have any pocket money for breakfast, so by the time lunch comes, they are ravenous! While all official fees and costs have been paid (with a small amount of money left over), there will remain a few costs that they will incur over the year. There are some more contributions that have been made this week, so I will use those funds to buy things like powder soap for their shirts (they have 3 white shirts, but wear them six days a week in the most dusty and dirty place you can imagine!), black dress shoes from the market, backpacks for those who carry books in a grocery bag, and 1 student who needs transport fees as he walks over 10kms to school each morning and is punished sometimes for being late. They still use corporal punishment in Kenya, so I think bus fare is a must for him!
When I got the tab settled with the Head Master, we headed out to take some photos! On the way we laughed and joked about their studies, and I met their Math teacher on the way out. He told me he had sat down with them and worked out a way for them to catch up in the work they missed and he said that they were great boys who were disciplined and willing to do the work. I thanked the teacher, Mr. Nyankundi (I THINK!) and told him to make sure the boys were doing everything they could to be successful. At the entrance gate, we met their Religion teacher who looked concerned that they were leaving just as lunch was ending. I assured him they'd be back to class soon and he said "Ok, Ok... you know these boys are great boys?" I said "Yes, of course I know they are!" And he thanked me for them and told me they would be fine.
Each boy demanded his own picture with me, and told me that upon returning to Canada, I must send them the prints for them to keep. They gave me the school's mailing address and I promised to send them pictures and even well-wishes in the mail, which they said will help motivate them around exam time in the winter. Here is just a couple that we took! (Note that the security guard wasn't exactly suave with the positioning and getting the school's name in the photos.... but you get the idea.) Thanks to all who helped- these are your faithful students!
Well- Friday the 13th marked not a scary or spooky day for the 5 Form 4 boys here in Nairobi, but one of a secure future and a year ahead that's lookin' as good as they do! When Francis (bottom right) first came into the office to hand me a receipt for the last payment, I was taken aback by how sharp and "smart", as they say here in Kenya, he was looking. I exclaimed, "Ah, look at you in your uniform, you look so smart Francis!", perhaps to his embarassment and the principal's amusement. "Their trousers have been tailored and now they are all set in their uniforms" he informed me. Perfect I said- now on to the learning.
I arrived on Friday to pay the remaining fees- Term 2 tuitions, national exam fees, and holiday tuition fees. It was lunch time, which consisted of shredded cabbage and carrots, boiled with corriander, and a potato-like corn meal they call "ugali". It didn't look overly yummy to me, but the boys were beaming and seemed pleased with the big portions senior boys are given. Abraham hadn't eaten and was anxious to get to his food- they tell me they don't have any pocket money for breakfast, so by the time lunch comes, they are ravenous! While all official fees and costs have been paid (with a small amount of money left over), there will remain a few costs that they will incur over the year. There are some more contributions that have been made this week, so I will use those funds to buy things like powder soap for their shirts (they have 3 white shirts, but wear them six days a week in the most dusty and dirty place you can imagine!), black dress shoes from the market, backpacks for those who carry books in a grocery bag, and 1 student who needs transport fees as he walks over 10kms to school each morning and is punished sometimes for being late. They still use corporal punishment in Kenya, so I think bus fare is a must for him!
When I got the tab settled with the Head Master, we headed out to take some photos! On the way we laughed and joked about their studies, and I met their Math teacher on the way out. He told me he had sat down with them and worked out a way for them to catch up in the work they missed and he said that they were great boys who were disciplined and willing to do the work. I thanked the teacher, Mr. Nyankundi (I THINK!) and told him to make sure the boys were doing everything they could to be successful. At the entrance gate, we met their Religion teacher who looked concerned that they were leaving just as lunch was ending. I assured him they'd be back to class soon and he said "Ok, Ok... you know these boys are great boys?" I said "Yes, of course I know they are!" And he thanked me for them and told me they would be fine.
Each boy demanded his own picture with me, and told me that upon returning to Canada, I must send them the prints for them to keep. They gave me the school's mailing address and I promised to send them pictures and even well-wishes in the mail, which they said will help motivate them around exam time in the winter. Here is just a couple that we took! (Note that the security guard wasn't exactly suave with the positioning and getting the school's name in the photos.... but you get the idea.) Thanks to all who helped- these are your faithful students!
Feb 11, 2009
A Circus of Learning by Seeing, Doing, Experiencing
Life in Nairobi has suddenly picked up the pace for me! The last couple weeks have been a whirlwind, sorry for the infrequent posts!
First- to the most inspiring story at hand. The Form 4 boys have successfully entered into their second week of school. They keep calling me to tell me little details- one got his uniform pants, but they were too short so he has to wait until the Headmaster goes into "town" (downtown Nairobi, an amusement park of people, bikes and cars); another tells me he is so happy to be in school, he doesn't mind that he has to go on Sunday to catch up with all the missed work from January; yet another calls to ask if I'm back in Nairobi- "We miss you, Kellee!" Needless to say, they are happy and doing well as they try to get up to speed with the rest of the class. I know they'll be successful, they are all very bright and dedicated boys. I'll try to get a pic of all of them at school in their unis when they all have long enough pants!
Also, this past weekend, Sud Academy's school administration, a couple teachers, a representative they call "Mama Mary" from the PTA, and myself interviewed 4 applicants to be Headmaster at Sud Academy. It was a long day with many questions, and several languages being spoken- Swahili, English and Mama's native Dinka- but it went well and we selected a candidate who seems to be eager to help Sud Academy and also extremely capable of understanding the complex issues that face it. Since he hasn't yet signed the contract, but seems happy that we have offered him the position, I don't want to give you his name and jinx the process... I will post an update when everything is official. I am looking forward to Sud Academy getting back on it's feet.
When I was back in Canada and talking to Jane Roy of Canadian Aid for Southern Sudan, she told me about a newspaper that serves Southern Sudan by writing articles from their perspective, as opposed to all other papers in Sudan that mostly have a Northern point of view. This paper is called the Sudan Mirror and is published right around the corner from my house in Nairobi. Jane put me in touch with the colourful owner and columnist, former priest from Ireland, Dan Eiffe. Over the past few weeks I have met with him to discuss many issues facing Southern Sudan and also the Sudanese refugees that have fled their homes. I've decided to volunteer there to help edit some of the articles, and also write- I was told on Monday- for my own column on Education and related issues. Wednesday is deadline day and I managed to write an article on what questions need to be considered before a system of education is committed to in the South. As it stands, there is no formal education and the population is extremely illiterate, second in the world only to Afghanistan. I am waiting for it to be edited and then go to print- when that's been done I will post it on here for anyone interested to read.
In addition to all these new things, I visited an orphanage and clinic that is funded by the Canadian branch of an organization called Caring Partners Global, out of Kitchener, Ontario. The 8 hour bus ride through the Kenyan country side was beautiful, and I even saw a bunch of Zebras! But the work that is being done in this remote area in Western Kenya is amazing, and successful. The orphans, who mostly lost their parents to HIV/AIDS, seemed to shine with happiness. The mother's who came to the clinic to inoculate their babies and receive family planning methods seemed grateful and willing to participate in the healthy upbringing of a new generation. It was inspiring to see that so much good work is being done with the help of people from around the world.
I also moved in this time period, at the beginning of February... it isn't exciting so I won't write about it, but I have indeed been super super busy!
Thanks for reading everyone, I know some of you have contributed in your own way to the some causes you read about here- you're generousity encourages me to continue contributing in my own small way. Stay warm Canucks!
First- to the most inspiring story at hand. The Form 4 boys have successfully entered into their second week of school. They keep calling me to tell me little details- one got his uniform pants, but they were too short so he has to wait until the Headmaster goes into "town" (downtown Nairobi, an amusement park of people, bikes and cars); another tells me he is so happy to be in school, he doesn't mind that he has to go on Sunday to catch up with all the missed work from January; yet another calls to ask if I'm back in Nairobi- "We miss you, Kellee!" Needless to say, they are happy and doing well as they try to get up to speed with the rest of the class. I know they'll be successful, they are all very bright and dedicated boys. I'll try to get a pic of all of them at school in their unis when they all have long enough pants!
Also, this past weekend, Sud Academy's school administration, a couple teachers, a representative they call "Mama Mary" from the PTA, and myself interviewed 4 applicants to be Headmaster at Sud Academy. It was a long day with many questions, and several languages being spoken- Swahili, English and Mama's native Dinka- but it went well and we selected a candidate who seems to be eager to help Sud Academy and also extremely capable of understanding the complex issues that face it. Since he hasn't yet signed the contract, but seems happy that we have offered him the position, I don't want to give you his name and jinx the process... I will post an update when everything is official. I am looking forward to Sud Academy getting back on it's feet.
When I was back in Canada and talking to Jane Roy of Canadian Aid for Southern Sudan, she told me about a newspaper that serves Southern Sudan by writing articles from their perspective, as opposed to all other papers in Sudan that mostly have a Northern point of view. This paper is called the Sudan Mirror and is published right around the corner from my house in Nairobi. Jane put me in touch with the colourful owner and columnist, former priest from Ireland, Dan Eiffe. Over the past few weeks I have met with him to discuss many issues facing Southern Sudan and also the Sudanese refugees that have fled their homes. I've decided to volunteer there to help edit some of the articles, and also write- I was told on Monday- for my own column on Education and related issues. Wednesday is deadline day and I managed to write an article on what questions need to be considered before a system of education is committed to in the South. As it stands, there is no formal education and the population is extremely illiterate, second in the world only to Afghanistan. I am waiting for it to be edited and then go to print- when that's been done I will post it on here for anyone interested to read.
In addition to all these new things, I visited an orphanage and clinic that is funded by the Canadian branch of an organization called Caring Partners Global, out of Kitchener, Ontario. The 8 hour bus ride through the Kenyan country side was beautiful, and I even saw a bunch of Zebras! But the work that is being done in this remote area in Western Kenya is amazing, and successful. The orphans, who mostly lost their parents to HIV/AIDS, seemed to shine with happiness. The mother's who came to the clinic to inoculate their babies and receive family planning methods seemed grateful and willing to participate in the healthy upbringing of a new generation. It was inspiring to see that so much good work is being done with the help of people from around the world.
I also moved in this time period, at the beginning of February... it isn't exciting so I won't write about it, but I have indeed been super super busy!
Thanks for reading everyone, I know some of you have contributed in your own way to the some causes you read about here- you're generousity encourages me to continue contributing in my own small way. Stay warm Canucks!
Feb 1, 2009
Uniform shopping with the boys!
Saturday and Sunday this weekend was spent shopping in markets for deals on items like pens, pencils, math sets, textbooks, notebooks (we needed one HUNDRED 200 page ones! school rule)... and of course, uniforms! Some which we got in the market- shirts, ties, socks... Then it was off to school to settle the tab for admin fees and a few other costs. The boys will be attending their first day of classes on Monday! They are very excited! There are still Term 2 fees to pay of which we have some money, but not all... and there is also exam fees that are surprisingly high... my mom said she would keep up the fundraising so they will be able to cover all these costs. Go Susie Q. You will notice I am wearing a tie in the photos- the boys love it when I joke around, and especially love watching me bargain with people at the markets who would charge me twice as much because I'm a "foreigner". I am one tough foreigner though, they say! We tried many shirts on, and the saleslady taught a couple of them how to tie ties. When all was said and done, they were suited up for class tomorrow. Looking "smart" as they say here in Kenya. I will keep you all updated as to their first week of school! Thanks again to all those who have donated- these smiles are because of your generousity. 
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