November 28th marked the end
of the Microsoft Word Training Workshop at the Busia Community
Library. After Mama Mtoto (Mother and Child reading program) ended,
the ladies wanted to continue to gather together on a weekly basis.
They informed us that they wanted to learn how to use computers.
So, with three laptops shared between
14 Mamas, one chalkboard and a few instructors, we taught them the
basics! They learned how to turn on the computer, open a file, click
and drag, change font, use punctuation, save a file…and all those
other things that those of us who are computer literate take for
granted.
They were a bit timid at first, but
after a few weeks they dove right in. We kept practicing and
practicing and learning and learning. They were such eager students,
it knocked my socks off! I am used to teaching 2nd and
3rd graders, who, let’s just say are not always
completely interested in what they are learning
We finished the class by typing up CV’s
(resumes) for all the Mamas. Now they each have two copies of their
work and learning experience to present to potential employers. We
also presented them with certificates to show they completed our
training.
The Mamas each took turns speaking
about the class. They said how much they loved coming together each
week and bonding as a group.
Scholastica shared that her neighbors
used to think she was illiterate-- when she told them that she was
going to get a certificate for a computer class, they could not
believe it! Now her neighbors want to come to a computer class at
the library themselves! She said that she can even tell that her husband
respects her more now for her achievement.
Rose told us that she used to think
that computer skills were only for the learned, but now she has
computer skills, and is planning to continue developing these skills.
They all echoed the sentiment that they
want to continue to grow as learners and are confident that this
class will help them with their employment goals.
We had a celebration on Monday complete
with speeches, pictures, music, mandazi and the presentation of
certificates which all took place in the newly repainted adult section of the library.
Enjoy the photos from the class,
celebration, and library make-over!
-Katie
P.S. This is my last week at BCL.
Sad. I'm going to the states for Christmas and then my husband and I
will be moving to Kakamega (Kenya) when we return. I am sure that I
will be back to Busia to check on the library and visit!
Scholastica gives her remarks on the class
Presenting Gladys with her certificate
Gladys #2 dances while she receives her certificate
Computer class (minus Esther) with certificates
(with Esther)
Gladys enjoying some reading time before the celebration
Preparing to paint the adult side
Extreme painting skills for hard-to-reach spots
Gladys, Katie and Everlyn give a thumbs up after the painting job is done
BCLS readers in action
The new view from the librarian's desk at BCLS
hushed tones the development phases of the human fetus.
