Hope is where the Heart is

Sutherland Shire teachers have united with their Rwandan counterparts to restore the education system in the strife-torn African country.

Rwanda, a nation encumbered by civil war in the past, is still suffering the devastating impact of poverty today.

However, individuals, volunteers, organisations and governments are helping to restore Rwanda and its people through several ongoing projects, such as education, aimed at implementing the initial vision of Hope Rwanda “100 days of Hope” in 2006.

Hope Rwanda Education Team coordinator and Shire resident Michelle Shaw said education is the key to breaking the poverty cycle but only 13 per cent of Rwandan students go to secondary school.

“If a Rwandan student fails final secondary exams, they are often immediately employed as a teacher with little extra training, facing class sizes of over 70 students on average,” Mrs Shaw said.

While Rwanda has moved forward, the depth of the conflicts in 1994 have left an indelible imprint of suffering and pain.

“Current Rwandan teachers are often child survivors of the genocide, having faced severe trauma and dislocation,” Mrs Shaw said.

“With poor pay, feelings of failure and minimal classroom management skills, Rwandan teachers are discouraged and often leave the profession.”

Hope Rwanda Education Team is working in partnership with the Rwandan Ministry of Education to build capacity in Rwandan primary and secondary teachers through in-service training.

“Our volunteers seek to stand alongside Rwandan teachers, reaffirming that they are integral to the nation’s economic and social development, and indeed, more precious than gold,” Mrs Shaw said.

In a show of practical support, last week local teachers, residents and community groups got behind the 2008 Inaugural Walk of Hope, an 18km journey from Menai to post-event celebrations at Dunningham Park, Cronulla.

The walk raised over $11,000 to help support the training of teachers in Rwanda and increased awareness of the plight of the troubled nation.

Illawong Primary School teacher and participant Taryna Melville said: “The international community may have turned its back in the past, but now we have the opportunity to make a difference.”

To be a part of this project contact the Hope Office on 9659 2553, or email michelle.shaw@woodsshaw.com.au

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