I have writer’s block. I’m thinking it’s a good thing, though. I think it means that my life here feels more normal and less out of the ordinary. Nonetheless, I know I owe you for lost time!
The first round of exams was quite an experience! Since we only have one functioning computer at school and most people don’t know how to use it, one of my responsibilities was to help a colleague type all of the exams, which he then took to a shop and paid to have copies made. Typing 30-ish exams in three different languages reminded me of how impressed I am with all of our students and their abilities to float between languages in different classes. They study a few classes in English, a few in French, and a few in Kinyarwanda. Their tests obviously reflect their classes, which means they took exams in all three languages as well.
During exam week, students were scheduled to take two exams per day. They were divided into classes with students from other grades so it would be more difficult for them to cheat. Teachers were assigned certain classes to supervise and expected to walk around and monitor classrooms where their exam was being taken.
On Wednesday of exam week, we were informed that Friday was a national holiday and students would not come to school. Since the schedule had already been made to include exams that Friday, the students had to stay on Thursday and take four exams. They were troopers!
April 7 marked the first day of Genocide Commemoration Week. Although the commemoration officially lasts for 100 days-the number of days the genocide was perpetuated in 1994-the first seven days are the official days of mourning and ceremonies are held every afternoon throughout the country in remembrance of all the Rwandans who lost their lives 16 years ago.
I’m not comfortable writing about the week, but if you’re interested a couple of fellow volunteers- Julie Ann and Penny- did post some insightful thoughts and impressions . In fact, I recommend reading both of their blogs regularly!
I went back to Nyanza for a couple days to do tech sessions for the health trainees, and I do still miss that place like nobody’s business. It feels so comfortable.
School is now back in session and I’m working on starting a small library-details to come!
Love and miss you all.
