Today was one of the biggest, most memorable days of this entire experience. We began the day in the bus relaxing while Yousa taught us about the differences between the Australian and Khmer education systems. In Australia, most kids begin school at around 5 or 6 and continue through 12 years of schooling and then university (as you probably know). We are taught for 6 or so hours, 5 days a week for most of the year. However, because of the effect of the Khmer Rouge, their schooling system is severely scarred. This is because of the fact that most of the educated people were killed during the Khmer Rouge’s reign, as they were seen as a threat. Nowadays the Khmer children are only taught 2 or 3 half days a week. The teachers are usually only paid about US$50 a month which isn’t enough to sustain much of a life or a family. As a result, most teachers seek other jobs to get enough money in areas like tourism or sometimes private tutoring.
Because of all these problems in their education system, Yousa opened his own school where kids can go to get extra education. The school helps with maintaining their culture through music and dance lessons as well as teaching them English and Chinese. Before we arrived at this school we bought some school supplies with our fundraised money with the guidance of Yousa himself. We brought a collection of writing books, pens, pencils, art supplies and English and Chinese text books which will facilitate the children’s education. We arrived with a welcoming honour guard which instantly made us feel special and appreciated. Students that were involved in the dance class performed a traditional welcome dance and a coconut dance. The performance truly showcased and highlighted the aim of the school and how they are preserving their culture. Next we split up into small groups and assisted in various places around the school. This included playing sports and teaching English, maths and spelling. There was a certain happy and excited vibe emanating from the school. After two hours of spending time with the students we had to say goodbye. The time was short but the memories will be everlasting.
The next stop was Kampuchea House. This incredible facility is a home for orphaned and deserted children. As soon as we arrived we couldn’t help but notice the family like bond between the housemothers and the kids. Belinda, the Vice President of the orphanage, explained why there was a need for Kampuchea House and how it began. A committee noticed that there was a high need for a home for children who had deceased or absent parents in small villages. With legal certifications from governments, Kampuchea House began! The village elder would would tell them what children were in need of not only a home but a family and a thorough education. Ultimately the decision to live at Kampuchea House and be under their legal care was up to the child. When we arrived we were greeted with smiles and hugs and immediately formed bonds with the kids. We spent hours playing ball games with lots of laughter. It’s seems odd that these kids are orphans and have so little but yet they are some of the happiest people we have met on this trip. They all had such rough starts to their lives but this place is able to turn it around and give them a chance to have a bright future as well as a family to support them on their journey. We also found it surprising how good their English was. This is because of an Australian volunteer named Sean. He originally volunteered for three months but has ended up staying for three years.
This memorable day was complemented by a trip to the night market and B.Y.O.Dinner from the selection down “Pub street”.
By Elias and Jasmine.
