The weekend was spent in Paro, Bhutan collecting all of the teachers. Two Aussies came in on Thursday, a large group of 7 of us came in on Friday, and the remainders arrived Saturday. So basically the weekend was spent getting to know each other and make convenient trips to nearby Paro. Some hiked to the Tiger's Nest, some visited the National Museum which is housed in the "lookout" above the Paro Dzong, some ventured out shopping, etc. It was a great way to start this adventure. On Sunday afternoon, BCF collected all of us and our belongings and transported us to Thimphu, arriving last night.
This morning, official orientation began. We were instructed on the workings of the government in terms of education. During a break in the action, I had the opportunity to chat with Nancy Strickland, the Executive Director of the Foundation. She was able to shed some more light on my new school.
I knew that I would be teaching children of yak herders, but I was unsure exactly why these children would be attending a school so close to town. Apparently the government has set an objective of 100% of the children to be enrolled in school by 2013. Since yak herders migrate with the seasons, most of the children have never had the chance for an education. If fact, some of these children may never have lived in a permanent dwelling. So, the students I will be teaching will be boarding school students who will live in student hostels. These hostels may very well be the first concrete structure they have ever lived in. What a privilege to be able to impact the lives of these children in such a positive manner. What a responsibility to be a role model/parental replacement for these children and possibly the first contact with a Westerner that they have experienced.
After lunch we had an audience with the Minister of Education. In fact, he invited us to tea!!!!! What an absolute honor. His office is in Thimphu Dzong, you know, the same structure that houses the office of His Majesty, The King.
We received clearance, went through metal detectors and made our way to his office. (We had been instructed how to behave prior to going to the Dzong.) He entered, we stood, he sat, we sat. It was all very formal. His speech to us was basically focused on the culture of Bhutan and without the culture, the country is nothing. He reiterated how lucky the children are to have us at their respective schools and that if there was anything that we needed, we should not be afraid to ask. What an amazing event. It would be like having tea on the spur of the moment with the Secretary of Education in Washington, D.C. WOW! At the end of our visit, he was gracious enough to walk outside and allow numerous photo opps to take place. It has been an amazing day.
So, tomorrow more orienting. So much to learn and so much to think about.
You look so happy to finally be there and it sounds as if you have every right to be so happy. How wonderful that they are treating you with all the honor and dignity that you deserve. The children are lucky to have you as their teacher, role model and "Mom". Be well, Friend.
ReplyDelete