Day 11

Tuesday 14th July

Today started out the usual way, with a challenging thought for the day from Stephen, allowing us to consider the impact of money and food wasted in the UK, due to our consumer centred attitudes. Following breakfast we were off to site, this time the whole team were at the school for a full day. 

For many of the team, this was a positive experience as they could see the amount of progress that had occurred, from the bricklaying being completed and the mounds of clay and rocks starting to decrease in size. 

Building progress at school site

Our tasks today were very much focused on clearing away all the clay and debris around the toilet block, paving the area and mixing concrete for the columns. The team very quickly found their roles and got to work. For me this involved being part of 'Team Tetris' alongside Stephen and Sam. We had great fun making sure our rocks of varying shapes and sizes not only fit together but were also stable enough to withstand the heavy loads of more rocks and concrete.

Team Tetris' path

As this was our last full day of work at the school, we had not one but two coffee ceremonies! The afternoon ceremony involved another rendition of Ireland's Call, this time from the whole team, including our Ethiopian hosts. David was presented with the important task of cutting the bread today, and more importantly with his right hand (which is challenging for us lefties!). The staff at the school have been so generous throughout our time on site, and they showed this once again by presenting each of us with an Ethiopian scarf, which will come in handy back in cold rainy Northern Ireland. 

Afternoon coffee ceremony

Unfortunately work had to finish early due to another torrential downpour (it is the rainy season after all), however this allowed us more time to spend talking to the school staff and site builders. In particular for me I got to brush up on my Ethiopian dancing, which is always a bonus.

Back at the guest house, we were treated to good old pizza and chips for tea causing there to be smiles all around. Following our time of reflection we were entertained by Tom and Declan with another game of Family Fortunes. Although it was a brief session it allowed us time to pack in preparation for heading to Debre Zeit for some well earned rest and relaxation.

All in all today was a fantastic day, with so much progress being made. It was very difficult to leave the school and the staff today, knowing that I would not be returning. However leaving with the knowledge that I have been part of a team that has made a big difference for these children and staff is something I will never forget.

Post by Fiona Graham