Another orientation day

Thursday -- June 18

Today, Jennifer Labuke, Schools 4 Schools education officer, talked to us about education in Uganda, as well as the war and its effects. I learned so much. Simply by talking to us she was able to demonstrate the fear and destruction the LRA has created. It is wonderful to know that currently Northern Uganda is experiencing peace even though many challenges exist. I have gotten to interact with many people who are very knowledgeable and hopeful for the situation in Northern Uganda and acting to make that a tangible reality . This continued as we toured the Invisible Children office. Later, we had a workshop on the use of dramatic practices in the classroom. A had a few free moments to spend in the internet café and got to Skype chat with my mom. The after dinner activity was trivia at Bamboo. I really didn’t know what to expect, but it was a bar full of whites, here known as munu or muzungu. It was also my first night boda ride. I like the night rides better b/c I can’t see as much and the roads are much less busy.

I like walking except perhaps in the middle of the day when it is very hot or when it is a very long walk. It provides me with exercise. It also helps me remember where places are and how to get to them. Also it gives me a chance to interact with the Acholi people. Here it is the complete opposite of urban centers in the states where people are very blasé. It is not out of the ordinary to walk by someone and say apwoyo (hello in Luo) or how are you. Additionally because I am a munu (white person) I attract a bit more attention. I often hear munu whenever I walk by, especially by children.