Day 15 Shikamoo again!
As our days in Tanzania dwindle, we are given more freedom of choice regarding our daily schedules. Our day started off with two hours of free time, letting us partake in activities such as soccer, journaling, and solar projects. The soccer game was a friendly competition between Menlo and Banjika. While Menloʼs participation was scarce and Banjikaʼs seemed infinite, Menlo put up a good fight although disagreement arose regarding rules, primarily the offside rule. In the end, we all agreed on a 4-4 tie and a rematch for the ultimate winner. Those who participated in the solar projects worked on creating study lights for the students out of small LED strips. Others worked on understanding the physics behind the tools that will be used to assist in teaching the subject.
– Martina
After a delicious lunch, Carlos taught a group of students how to play “animal master” (try to keep up as the beat gets faster!) We gathered in a circle and each chose an animal that could be represented using one hand, and as we made a beat by clapping, we passed the animals around the circle: first making the motion for our animal, and then someone elseʼs, who made theirs and another personʼs, and so on. The game ended in laughter over a splits contest between Christian and Marvin, with the latter taking the gold. Then, it was back to work! Carlos led a learning session during which we split into groups to discuss topics such as the gender gap, literacy rates, democracy/corruption, peace rates, and human development levels of countries around the world. We discussed why certain countries had higher or lower rates of each, and why money doesnʼt guarantee success in human development. After school, many students met up with neighbors to hang out, play cards, and of course, eat an abundance of dinners (I believe the record so far is three in a day) so for parents concerned about us getting enough to eat, never fear!!
– Charlotte
P.S. Just wanted to add something: we really appreciate Banjikaʼs efforts in making a delicious variety of options every day! We have heard from several students that their typical lunches consist of one or two options, so theyʼre really making an extra effort to make us feel comfortable and welcomed :)
