This morning we were at Manuel C. Figueroa school. It isn't far from the centre and the living conditions are better for the children. The children are cleaner, better dressed and they are better developed both physically and mentally. Some of them wear a semblance of school uniform. They are also much more confident which is reflected in their behaviour.
The conditions in this school are far superior to 'Maria Luisa Beltranena' (Chiucavioc). Here the floors are tiled in the classrooms and the rooms are clean. Still very little equipment. For example there is no filing cabinet or any cupboards. Even so, the conditions are nothing like in the UK. I noticed that most of the children have a Pronino pencil case which contains pens and pencils. Such a contrast to Chiucavioc where pencils are in great demand. Someone mentioned that they have been given equipment but they are never seen again!
We finished the morning lessons a bit early so that we could meet the local council. We didn't know what to expect. We felt a bit like celebrities and photographers were there and the local TV. We were publically thanked for our help and were called out one by one by name and given a certificate which declares that we are officially 'distinguished visitors'. We even had a slot on the evening news.
This afternoon we went to 'Republica de Holanda school. This is another rural school and because it is small we have to use a local house for the lessons. These children seem well cared for and are reasonably dressed. I noticed a lot of Pronino branded clothing being worn. The group were small in number and easier to control than the morning session. The children at this school seem more respectful and are keen to learn and join in.
We normally have to be on our way for 7.30am in the morning and don't get back until about 6pm. We then have a discussion about how things went. Tonight our discussion didn't finish until about 8.30pm and then we have to start thinking about somewhere to eat. The days are long and I'm finding it tiring.
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