School's In!

Schools are in full swing here in Lesotho. The results from last year are out so kids know if they have passed or failed and with summer holidays over the kids have returned to the towns from their respective villages. Many kids stay with relatives near better schools if they can or are in boarding if they can afford it. The quality of schools varies widely all across Lesotho and I am getting a first hand look at both primary and high school level institutes of learning.

Part of my 'job' is to visit our sponsored kids at their respective high schools, as well is check in on our twinned primary schools to see what the current needs are. The needs at the schools are many and are varied, as are the needs of the individual children. Many wear raggedy uniforms and shoes with holes in them. Many don't get enough food at home, which adds another challenge to school in Lesotho. Aside from being hungry (which makes concentration difficult), there are anywhere from 35-65 students in a classroom, some classrooms are shared with one grade facing one way and another facing the other, often kids don't get stationery from the government until April - 2 months into the school year - I could go on but I won't.

This is a common story across the world I'm sure. Kids wanting to learn but resources being scarce. Teachers wanting to teach but not knowing where to begin. Principles and Teachers talk to us about the school needs without expectation and maybe only a little hope. We can only do what time, money and resources can afford. The good part though, is that even though life is hard people show up and that must count for something. It better count for something because I don't want to stop showing up.