The Two Es

Energy- the ability to do work.  Energy can take a wide variety of forms- heat (thermal), light (radiant), mechanical, electrical, chemical, and nuclear energy.  There are two types of energy- stored (potential) energy and working (kinetic) energy.  For example, the food you eat contains chemical energy, and your body stores this energy until you release it when you work or play.  

All forms of energy are stored in different ways, in the energy sources that we use every day.  We use energy sources (oil, gas, wind, solar) to generate the electricity we need for our homes, businesses, schools, and factories.  Electricity (a form of energy made available by the flow of electric charge through a conductor) "energizes" our computers, lights, refrigerators, and washing machines to name only a few uses.      

Much of the electricity network in Uganda is poorly maintained and the country experiences frequent power outages. Less than 10 percent of the population have access to electricity and many towns, especially in the North of the country are without electrical power. In rural areas only about 2-3 percent have access to electricity, of which less than half is provided through the national grid, the remainder coming from household generators, car batteries or solar photovoltaic (PV) units. About 97% of Uganda's population do not have access to electricity.  Read more about the energy profile of the country here.  Despite its great importance in our daily lives, few of us probably stop to think what life would be like without electricity.  Like air and water, we tend to take electricity for granted.

I came to terms with the truth in this statement my first night in Uganda.  When traveling to Africa one of the most important items in my pack is a headlamp (the second a supply of Tums).  You can be certain I have offered up many appreciative words to the Petzel manufacturers (in addition to their making of solid climbing equipment).  A headlamp is how you cope with frequent power blackouts and stubborn back-up generators.  It keeps you from running into something or someone (this has happened).


I found myself in a situation in which I sadly must report I expressed animosity towards my headlamp (yes an inanimate object) and cursed my forgetfulness.  I had just got settled into my room when the power went out leaving me fumbling around in unfamiliar darkness.  I found my bag and went to grab the headlamp- not there.  A certain dread fell over me as I realized I had not remembered packing it in Mombasa, Kenya.  Frustrated and ashamed at the level of frustration felt I decided to go to bed at 7:30pm.  


We use energy to do everything we do, from making a jump shot to baking our favorite cookies to sending astronauts into space- energy is there, making sure we have the power to do it all.
 

Could you imagine living without electricity? What would your life be like? 

Note: I found my headlamp at the bottom of my pack the next day.  I had a good laugh.

Wrong Way On a One-Way & Went to Prison

Just another day in Uganda!  These events happened on my last day in Africa, fitting really.  Why wouldn't it be action packed?!  Some Ugandan friends and I were in Jinja (the city which boasts the source of the Nile River) to explore a potential non-profit partnership for the school.  The Uganda America Partnership Organization operates currently in central and northern Uganda.  They actively engage in the development of Uganda through forming partnerships with Ugandans for a better future.  Projects include building wells, orphanages, and a self-sustaining economic and community development project for widows and orphans crafting jewelry.  Probably the most respectful part of what they are achieving is that the organization has NEVER given any hand-outs!  Something many non-profits in the country who construct buildings or give resources (money), but offer no training or support of African leadership could learn from.  Part of the landscape of Uganda are the signs of many NGOs scattered throughout, however most are short lived with empty buildings left standing and the lost hope of failed initiatives felt by communities.

Upon arriving in Jinja we were able to spend some time seeing the woman's project in action.  We  drove out to a rural community where woman were selling their jewelry back to the organization and receiving credit to their village savings and loan accounts.  We were able to get a better feel for what the organization (and ultimately the locals) was achieving in these communities.  It was an amazing success story!  With time to burn until we met up with the group from the States for dinner we decided to visit the cousin (who lived in Jinja) of one of the friends I was with for tea.  Little did I know he had an interesting living arrangement.

After picking up some tea we turned down a busy city street.  I quickly realized it was a one-way street and we were traveling "against the stream".  Unfortunately the friend driving was a little slower in realizing this than I.  Not wanting to be that pesky back seat driver I gave him a few extra moments to realize our circumstances.  However,  others in the car beat me to the task, "yo man! you are driving the wrong way!"  We were able to turn off onto a side street (two-way) with horns blaring at us and me (half-jokingly) telling Joseph (the driver) that up until this point I felt safe with his driving, but was beginning to seriously doubt my judgment.  Within 5 minutes I realized where we were headed...jail.

We drove out of the city and through a run-down industrial section on the shores of Lake Victoria which I was told once boasted a bustling fishing industry.  We arrived at a guarded gate and I was told we were at Jinja Prison.  The cousin is a corrections officer and lives on the grounds.  As we drove in my confusion gave way to inward laughter....seriously?!  We drove past prisoners working on the grounds and proceeded past the various buildings and up a hill to the workers homes.  At the top of the hill I gazed out the window and was met with an unobstructed few of the city and Lake Victoria...simply remarkable!

We had tea, chatted into the late afternoon, and played several games of checkers (with soda bottle tops).  My friend's cousin was disappointed that we hadn't come earlier so he could have given me the tour and introduced me to some of the staff and residents.  He asked if I had ever been in prison in the States.  I joked replying that typically being in a prison means you are a prisoner!  Later, I passed a soccer ball with some of the staff's kids as the sun sunk below the horizon and reflected sunset colors of orange and purple across Lake Victoria, my last sunset in Africa.  I couldn't have asked for a better end to my time here.   

Africans are Resourceful

"I'd be a great dentist!"  beamed Ezekial (deputy teacher) as he chiseled away at a cow jawbone attempting to free a molar.  "Yeah, on the dead!" was Raymond's (history teacher) reply.  This is just a glimpse into our comical biology lab preparations Monday morning for the senior 4 students.

Ezekial and Ishmael (biology teacher) had spent the previous two days hunting around the district for the various materials needed for the lab.  The most difficult to secure were: teeth (cow/goat), vertebrae from a goat, and cow liver.  (Not wanting to waste precious meat staff had arranged to use the liver of sick cow that was to be slaughtered and disgarded.  In addition to the liver staff also received a bonus, liver flukes -parasitic flatworms- which they later preserved in the lab for student observations).  This unusual  search prompted local residents to contact the headmaster of the school concerned that the staff were consulting a traditional healer (witch doctor).  Why else would anyone want so many bones?!  Well, for science of course!

By the end of the morning the lab was set-up for students.  They entered and began their observations.  They then conducted an experiment to test the enzyme activity in various tissues hence the raw and boiled liver.  As I watched students complete the lab (unsure if it would even happen four hours earlier), I was reminded of how resourceful Africans are.  They use what is available to the best of their ability.  Unfortunately, not many here share the same thought.  A negative way of thinking many staff in the school and members of the community are trying to change.

Set Down the Tools: Day 3

The buzz around town has been concerning the nationwide strike of teachers which started on Wednesday.  Teachers have set down their tools and students have either been sent home or attempt to teach lessons themselves.  Last night I watched news coverage of a crowded classroom absent of a teacher.  One student stood before them conducting a lesson.  Public teachers are demanding a fair wage from the government.  Currently, teachers earn the equivalent of about $150 per month, a hardly liveable wage given the current inflation.  Common items (like sugar) have doubled in price.  The President (since 1986) is unwilling to see the importance of teachers to the countries future.  Many teachers have grown tired of keeping silent and are now standing in solidarity demanding changes to the current education system.

Myth Busters: Africa Edition

"Americans can't ride bikes!" was the claim of a group of senior 6 students as we discussed ways of transportation in the States.  Their understanding isn't completely off-base.  They assumed most Americans drive from point A to point B which most do, unlike here where few drive and most either "foot" (walk) or bike.  It is not uncommon to see someone pedaling a bike with a bed frame balanced on the back, seemingly defying the laws of physics!  One can even hitch a ride on a bicycle taxi.  Of course, I quickly set out to prove their statement a myth.

At first I was given a student's bike that was way too big for me.  I would have needed a boost to get onto the seat which was up to the middle of my torso!  Oh the woes of being vertically challenged.  A smaller bike was found, but it was still a struggle to get on gracefully especially wearing a skirt.  After much laughter and some student assistance I managed to get on it and start pedaling.  I rode around the courtyard to the sound of students laughing and cheering.  Myth busted!

"We're here because of the dream"

I asked Ishmael (a chemistry and biology teacher) why he continues to come back day after day to St. Peter's College in spite of the challenges this start up school faces.  His reply revealed his passion for transforming young people through education.

"Many of my friends in the city think I'm crazy!  Why would I leave teaching at a school with plenty of resources to come here?  My colleagues and I are here because we have a common dream.  To bring about change in this rural district.  To empower the youth.  To give them hope for a better future.  Because of this vision we will continue on lacking infrastructure and materials.  Even on little pay.  This staff is hardworking and determined."

Ishmael is from a surrounding village and knows first hand the struggles students face in rural schools.  He struggled through Pallisa schools.  He has returned here to provide a different experience for students than his own.  The staff here at St. Peter's College are striving to establish the school as the best in the area.  Already since it's opening last year St. Peter's has established a name for itself in the community.  No doubt the strong and passionate staff and quality of instruction has contributed to this.  Additionally there is a significant student culture/attitude that prevails.  The phrase "Be Opposite" is heard frequently among students and in student-teacher interactions.  This means for students to counter their negative surroundings.  To be change in their environment.  When others quit, you continue on.  When others complain, you encourage.  As a result students become more driven and focused.  They challenge each other and grow as a result.  They are establishing character which will help carry them towards their futures.  These students are grateful for the time and energy their teachers are pouring into them (Mon-Sat 8a-5p and some evening sessions for 80 boarding students).  I would be too!

First Things First

The title of this post reflects the motto of St. Peter's School Amusala.  Simon, the director told me it reminds students to set goals and priorities in order to be successful.  Yesterday was my first day with students.  Unfortunately, another staff member's father passed away and a group of about 50 students and the headmaster traveled to the funeral in a neighboring district (40kilometers away).  The remaining students stayed behind for a half day with me.  I did a group discussion with students giving them the opportunity to get to know me and I them.  They had many questions about America and I asked them what it's like to be a teenager in Uganda.  Much like teens in the States, Ugandans love music.  Some of their favorite hip-hop and R&B artists include Jay-Z and Rihanna.  Students asked that I teach them a song.  The first song that came to mind was Don't Stop Believing.  We had a blast learning the lyrics and students enjoyed laying down the rhythm.  It was very Glee like.  I'll be sure to record it once we perfect it.

Students are preparing for subject exams (mid-terms) on Wednesday so we spent the rest of our time reviewing biology and chemistry.  The senior 4 (junior equivalent) had many great questions.  At the end of our study session they were grateful for the opportunity and looking forward to my future review lessons.  Students will be taking exams till the 29th.

The biggest challenge for students and myself will be the language barrier.  English is the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th language for students with village languages being their primary.  I assured them we will struggle together, me with Auteso (local language) and students with English (spoken in schools here).

I'm looking forward to spending more time at St. Peter's the next 3 weeks.  The students' enthusiasm for learning is refreshing!