Rotary club of Stirling meeting of 5th Jan 2018

SVP Sandy Farquharson welcomed members to our first meeting of 2018.  Our next heat of the Gavel is on 18/1/18 at Perth St Johns.

Our speaker Eilidh Harris, a 6th form pupil at Bannockburn High, was one of a group from the school who were part of Team Malawi last June. This was a follow up to the Bannockburn youngsters who had been in Malawi in 2015. On this occasion the main aim was to finish work on new primary school classrooms. Before she could go Eilidh had to raise£2400 to cover the cost of travel and accommodation, and we were happy to add to what she had already raised herself. A confident speaker, Eilidh gave us a vivid account her trip, which had clearly made a great impression on her. 

After the initial culture shock, basic airport, transport, accommodation, and more seriously very limited WIFI, they were overwhelmed by the welcome from about 800 primary children when they arrived at the school. Apart from their work on the classrooms, the experience was dominated by the warm curiosity and enthusiasm of the children. As is often the case small things highlight how different the children's lives were compared to Scotland. These children had never seen a lollipop and did not realise it was for eating. The poor quality of the WIFI was put into perspective.  Obviously an enthusiastic youngster, she will carry her experiences of life in Africa with her.  Her current aim is to get an apprenticeship in computer technology with BAE.   The vote of thanks was given by Malcolm Cordwell-Smith.

Our meeting on 12th January will be a business meeting. Visitor's host Jane Wilson.  For more info www.stirling.rotary1010.org