Thursday, July 7, 2011

Never expected that! What a privilege!



Volunteers enjoyed a rare privilege recently when the graduating students in Year 3 at Xayadeth College made their final presentations at the school. Volunteer teachers were asked to be on the assessing committee for the students, grading the presentations according to a range of criteria including knowledge of topic, presentation style, English fluency and pronunciation etc. What an unexpected honour to be invited by the school’s Director to sit alongside the Lao teachers and score the students in their final examinations!
Volunteers relished the opportunity to ask questions at the end of each presentation and due to the diversity of topics covered – everything from blacksmithing, to rice growing techniques, and local tourist attractions to sweet orange exports – learnt much about the life of Lao people and local industries.
Officials from the Education Department also came along for part of the presentations, and the Director opened and closed proceedings with speeches, including an expression of thanks for the ongoing work of GVI and volunteers in the school.

Following formalities teachers, students, volunteers and GVI staff enjoyed a luncheon consisting of delicious Lao/Chinese foods and some drinks for those not having to teach later in the day. A great day was had by all (including the students once the nerves passed!) and volunteers can now say they’ve been part of a school matriculation committee!
Share/Save/Bookmark

0 comments: