Kenya

7 August 2006 they arrived at RECSAM with the hope that their stints here will make a difference when they go back home. As they introduced themselves, I learned that they are not primary school teachers but college instructors handling future teachers. Great! Most of them have even in the profession longer than I am. What could I share with them? In fact, they were more experienced. Taking up the challenge, with enthusiasm I shared with them what I could and gave them the best I could muster.

As days went by, I realized that life has some surprises to reveal. Though things have been done repeatedly; lectures have been used several times; teaching approaches have been implemented well enough; but still things would not simply stay the way they were. I even amazed myself with the wonders I could make. When after that first session and they gave me a clap, it dawned on me that the best is still to come. After that, I was even more inspired. With great zeal and zest, I faced each day with gusto knowing that each encounter is an experience incomparable to none other.

There were four ladies: Anne ( a big lady with the softest voice), Julia (the silent lady with the three guys at the back who inspires me with her nods), Mildred (the try-out teacher whom I always found to be sleepy or tired but her participation is affecting) and Nancy (the lady with her hair beautifully done). Thereare two Peters and two Josephs.Peter, the short, and Peter, the big (with apology). Joseph, the one who gave me a picture of a lady in her initiation and Peter, the man I admire most not because of his incapacity (and I don't see it as one) but because of his desire to advance himself. Vitalis, the athlete, went with Dr. Chona and me to hike in Bukit Jambul. I remember Reuben with his question: is the dog thinking? and what is 1? Edward has a well modulated voice and quite a nice smile. Wilson is slimyet has a big voice. To We, George and Nelson, the guys who shared such meaningful insights during discussions. Francis, the guy teacher during the try-out who has expressed both satisfaction (during the first try-out) and disappointment (during the second try-out) with the activities. John, the silent guy; Wang Ang, the guy in the computer; Wil, the stout one; and Marithim, the group monitor.

I vividly remember how each onehadbeen during each session. It could not be overemphasized that each session had been a most rewarding learning experiencefor me. I had been blessed with an opportunity to be with these people. I think I have grown more as a person and as a lecturer with them as they had with me.

So far, during the times I am with the Centre, this group, I consider the best in terms of participation and response.

To you guys, as you travel the path of greater learning, let it be remembered, that once we meet in this corner of the world called RECSAM.