This past couple of months at ELI have been quite the adventure. With the dictionary definition of adventure being “an undertaking usually involving danger and unknown risks”, you can somewhat get an idea of what it is we do… Making art out of trash, visiting a castle, opening a new ELI center, finalizing the Science program, Drama…Yes, we’ve done it all and the thing is that it continues!
Being part of an organization that believes in giving an education to under privileged kids through a more ‘hands on’ method is definitely something unique and fun. In the past month or so, we visited the Chateau Labourdonnais which is located in the North of Mauritius and is known as a very historical landmark here on the island. This trip was history related and the kids not only got to increase their general knowledge about the past of their home but they also got a rich education when we had the honor of visiting the Orchard that was set up years ago. The children got to learn about different trees and the fruits they produce. This trip was possible by joint efforts of the Rotary Club of Port Louis, ELI Africa and last but definitely not least the Roche Bois OSTE Center.
Another great experience we had this month was when ‘Waves of Change’ organized a workshop where the children were taught about the environment and what humans were doing to our home. There was a presentation as well as an art exhibition. All the art was made from trash that had been collected from Ile Aux Benitiers (South of Mauritius) It was a great experience for the children; they had fun whilst learning about one of the most talked about problem of this century. At the end of the day the children got to use some trash to make their own little pieces of art! It was great fun!!
Another good thing that came with the month of April was the Easter Holidays! Being a student myself I knew that the last thing the kids would want to do would be to work of English and Grammar so after some talking with Cedric we decided on Drama! Drama is a fun way to get the kids moving whilst teaching them English at the same time. I put the kids into small groups and each chose a book from the shelf. They read through it and made their own scripts. They were able to perform the next lesson! It was an amazing experience.
Something else that I must mention before logging off is the opening of the center at Pamplemousse. We started classes there about 2 weeks ago and I must say that I feel as though we’re off to a great start! With the help of our new ELI Volunteers and ELI Corps, the Pamplemousse branch is excelling!
Looking forward to more kickass (for lack of a better word) experiences with ELI Africa!