Making a difference

If you are considering teaching in a developing country, then there is one question you should ask yourself: “Am I interested in making a positive difference, and for what reasons?” Teaching in an underdeveloped country has become a popular choice for young people from Ireland; however, it is certainly not suited to everybody.

In today’s world there are very few places that have not been impacted by the development of Western society, and no matter where you go you will see evidence of globalisation. Even in the most rural villages, shops are decorated with Coca-Cola logos, the children adore premiership footballers and teenagers idolise American rap stars.

The children will not see you as the typical student, working for minimum wage in your local newsagents or bar, as you are in Ireland, they will instantly look to you for guidance and many will be in awe of you.Do not reward the kids with material goods. Some will see you as a potential source of money, that will allow them to buy a bottle of Coke, or they may mischievously express an interest in your watch.

Material goods are not everything

Concentrate on using your position to teach your students simple principals, as basic as the difference between right and wrong.You must remember that education is a relatively new concept to their societies and Western ideas can be very confusing. 

However, it is not all serious thought and responsibilities, once you know you can handle the culture change, you can look forward to a completely unique and rewarding life experience. Last summer I spent three months volunteering with Moving Mountains, a charity based in Northern Ireland that has various projects in Kenya, including schools, orphanages and football teams.During this period I taught in a primary school in the Siyia district of Western Kenya.

The charity has worked in Kenya since 2002 and over this time has built a marvellous rapport with the local communities. While the first few days can be a bit overwhelming, particularly the intensity of the crowded cities, once you find your feet, you will immediately feel at home.

Playing with the kids

The diversity of life in Kenya is something I will always remember. Days spent teaching the children were followed by evenings playing football and meeting locals who were incredibly friendly and hospitable.

The style of teaching is very authoritative and the fact that free education is a recent privilege means one class can have students of varying abilities. Other factors, such as the large numbers of students, means that teaching can be a little difficult in practical terms, but it is an incredibly rewarding experience.

These children have an incredible range of talent. On one occasion I invited the students to sing before the end of class. One girl volunteered and timidly shuffled to the top of the class where she stood bravely in front of forty or so of her classmates. She began to sing a gospel song and within a few seconds every single student joined her in perfect unison, with voices so powerful and beautiful I was left speechless.
 

Me with the rising stars!

The developing world is caught in a web of major problems. The work done by Moving Mountains, and charities like it, give these regions great hope.

There are so many reasons to strive to benefit the people you will encounter and if you believe you can make a positive difference then you most certainly will.

By Brian Morrissey