During this last week, we took on the arduous task of organizing the library of Emafini, which consisted of hundreds of books crammed into a crowded shipping container, that none of us even knew existed. I was shocked to find out that students had this resource right at their finger tips, yet none of the teachers ever really enabled students a chance to check out these books. Thus we decided to organize the books, and create a check out system so that students could check out books, and take advantage of this life changing resource. From Tuesday till Friday, our group worked tirelessly in the library trying to establish some rhymn and reason to the books that were completely disorganized. We organized books by genre, fiction or non-fiction, type of story, and grade level. To establish a resource where students could come to check out books and expand their minds. After laboriously working on the library for the entire week, we finally completed it. It offered us a great sigh of relief and satisfaction that it was finally complete, and would be something that would help our learner's grow intellectually.
A foto op with some of the learners, and their new stunna shades!
On Friday, we presented the library to Mr. January and the rest of the staff at Emafini, and they could not have been more appreciative or excited. It was clear, that Mr. January was truly taken back by this endeavor, and many of the other teachers expressed the same zeal and excitement for it. The students were also very enthusiastic about their new library. As a token of our appreciation for the teachers and students of Emafini, we also donated gift bags to the teachers containing various school supplies such as books, crayons, construction paper, etc. We also watched a wonderful movie presentation with pictures from our time at Emafini created by Mary and Chris. The video was beautifully done, and both students and teachers a like were taken back by this passionate, and moving video.
The Finished Library!
Saying goodbye to the students was tougher than I thought. Working with these children on a regular basis for the last three weeks, getting to know them, and where they come from has helped forge a strong bond between my students and I. It was extremely hard for both of us to see one another part, however, it brings a smile to my face knowing that we had this amazing opportunity, and have helped these students learn. I know these students will continue to grow as learner’s and will go on to achieve great things.
After school, Mr. January had us over his wonderful home for a farewell Braii (South African cookout). The teachers of Emafini, prepared a traditional African meal. The food was exotic but delicious non the less. With such items as sour milk (literally exactly what it sounds like), African Salad, and Tripe (sheep intestines.) It was a very interesting and unique cuisine. Initially the thought of eating the entrails of another animal seemed a bit repulsive however, I’ve always been someone who’ll try something at least once. This case was no different, and despite the smell, it actually turned out to be pretty tasty, chewy but tasty non the less. It just goes to show you, you never know if your going to like something unless you try it.
Mr. January, our principal, and I.
Following dinner, we discussed some of the fond memories of teaching at Emafini and also talked about how much we appreciated one another. Mr. January, gave us a warm farewell speech, and we held hands to sing a traditional song in Xhosa, then we parted ways. Again, words fell short of describing this spectaculiar experience. I will dearly miss the learner's and teachers from The Emafini Primary School, their compassion, love of life, and eagerness to help has been amazing. This experience has changed my life forever, and it will always be something that I fondly remember.
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