Assignment in Rwanda

Joanne Kirkham, daughter of our Youth Chair Jan has just completed a 2 year assignment with VSO in Rwanda as a Teaching Advisor.

A former teacher in Manchester, Joanne was attracted to her assignment because VSO ensure that the work is sustainable.

Teaching methods in Rwanda have been unchanged in decades. Classes are large by our standards, often 70 plus, and teachers are paid around £50 per month. They often start at 7 am and finish around 5 pm, with possibly an hour's travel to and from the school.

Surprisingly, the country has excellent 4g links. If you want to see gorillas, it will cost you $1500. Women form 64% of government and the place is scrupulously clean as everyone picks up any litter.

Rwanda was originally a French Colony before independence, and prior to that a Belgian colony. The official language was French, but changed to English after the genocide and to improve links with the Eastern African community.

A great presenation and after questions, mum Janice was pleased to propose the vote of thanks.