Last Thursday we were lucky enough to be
invited to the opening ceremony and graduation of the trainees involved in
HYT's 5th project, St Andrew's, Naminage. This ceremony was unlike anything we
had experienced in England with traditional African dances and songs performed
by the pupils throughout the day.
The day began with the official opening of
the new girls dormitory, with HYT's Director Russell Matcham and the Regional
District Commissioner for Kamuli district cutting the ribbon, amidst cheers and
chants by parents, pupils and distinguished guests. This was not surprising as
the building represents an impressive improvement; with light and spacious dorm
rooms, a wash room and study room which will no doubt improve the lives of the
students.
Guests were then shown a demonstration of the
making of an ISSB block. This was
conduced by trainees from both St Andrews and Kimenyulo, to show not only what
they have learned with HYT, both also the speed and ease in which the block is
made compared to that of a traditional fired brick.
Both Russell and HYT's Operations Manager
Philip Yiga then presented the trainees their certificates of graduation, A
total of five local men graduated that day and truly deserved their day after all
their hard work and achievements. It was wonderful for them to be able to be
congratulated by people of their local village.
We would like to thank all the teachers and
pupils at St Andrews for organizing this special day for the graduates - their
efforts made the day a memorable one for all involved.
Charlie and Flo