This week saw the beginning of our
classes in the University, providing an interesting insight into the education
system here in South Africa. Classes here tend not to run as smoothly as in
Stranmillis, with many classes being either cancelled or re-scheduled at the
last minute. Despite this the lectures easy to follow and speaking with our
lecturers made what was required of us much clearer. It was also reassuring to
know that the lecturers were as approachable as those in Stranmillis.
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| You don't see this at home! |
Starting classes has also provided us
with the opportunity to get to know some locals from our classes, all of whom
are very friendly and are keen to learn about Irish culture – I have even been
asked to speak in Irish (Gaeilge) several times! After speaking to a group of
students in my Life Orientation class, I have gained a greater appreciation for
the educational opportunities I have been blessed with. They explained to me
that in South Africa, to get into third level education you must work very hard
and have the financial support needed to pay fees etc. For many keen to pursue
a career at third level the realities can be an impossible barrier. I believe
it has almost become a cultural thing to go to University at home – an
experience I feel we often take for granted!
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| Traditional music and dance |
Valentine’s Day is a huge event here
in South Africa with roses, cards and chocolates on display in every shop. In
the evening a group of us were invited to the Township to share in some
traditional food and dance. Despite the troubled history between black and
white people here we were warmly welcomed and were made to feel at home. We
truly had an experience you simply will not find on the traditional tourist
trails, although I did hesitate before eating the Ox and Goat tongues. It
really was an experience I will not forget for a long time to come!
Perhaps the most exciting day of the
week for me personally was Sunday when Lynsey and I, along with some American
friends went on a road trip to Seaview Lion Park where we got to hold four
month old lion and tiger cubs. We also got very close (a little too close) to
some wild animals including zebra and giraffe.
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During the week we attended the
Sharks vs. Kings rugby game in the Nelson Mandela Stadium which played host to
many of the 2010 Fifa World Cup games – a magnificent piece of construction and
a wonderful atmosphere! Despite the beauty of the stadium, it was difficult to
ignore the begging children outside the stadium gates, bringing back the
reality of life for some people here.
I would encourage anyone reading this
blog who is considering the international experience for next year to go for
it! I am sure that it is an experience that you will not regret and the chance
to experience another culture and meet people from all over the world is
incredible. Don’t let the opportunity pass you by!
Until next week,
Glenn
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