My adaptation and understanding during the first month in Zambia

First month in Zambia

Cormac

Reflection

In my first meeting with Madam Elizabeth and Mr. Bright, Madam Elizabeth told me that I should use this time to settle in, get to know the students, the boys, the area and get involved in the programme as much as possible to establish what subjects I could be involved in.

I found that I have settled in quite well and I have established a routine which I am working on. I feel comfortable and at home here in Children’s town and I know who I can go to if I need anything.

My biggest struggle was the schedule especially as Lindersvold was so constantly scheduled which I liked as I can struggle to keep myself to my own schedule. Though now with the teaching returning I won’t have that problem.

I will have to continue to adapt as I will see the school, teachers and students in a completely different light as I continue to get to know the project and teaching begins.

Remaining open and curious is one of my main focuses in my experience, and this will continue. I will mention one cultural difference that I observed the practice of ensuring the students fulfil their responsibilities in the school and the consequences when they don’t. The reasoning and practice of this in the school is very clear to me and I have trust in the teachers and headmasters in the school that this practice is carried out responsibly and with care.

I’m understanding of this and of the challenges of managing the students, though I will also remain curious around this, especially as it is very recently that I became aware of this

Overall I am very happy and excited about the project so far, I have been very lucky to find myself in such a position with very supportive teachers and surroundings and with so many opportunities for me to learn, participate and express myself, I will push myself to make the most of every day that I am here