Day 4

Monire

The bells at six, mass at 6.30 a.m., breakfast at 7 p.m.;so began another relaxing day in Mzuzu. Even Celia was on time after wrestling out of her double mosquito net. Today we had the visits to the 3 schools, all in one morning. It was great to see the pupils and staff at St. Peter's Secondary again. We received a fantastic welcome at the whole school assembly; the pupils sang their national anthem with gusto and cheered loudly when we were introduced one by one. We met up with all our old friends, the students who had come to Scotland: Harris, Kingstone, Thembeko, Lizzie, Immelda and even Lillian who was just back from her village after the death of her mother. In the staffroom there were different faces due to several staff changes. There are many more pupils about since the school roll has doubled in size. The school is getting ready for the exam period with Form 2 exams starting on Wednesday.

Then, it was on to Luyanga, the girl's Primary school; here, Anne handed over a cheque, a card of introduction, some photos and a school tie to the head teacher on behalf of St Mark's Primary, which wants to form a link with the school. The children at the school were all excited when we appeared, swarming around us to shake our hands. The head teacher showed us the mattresses which we purchased last year for the form 8 boarders. They have been well used over the year but would you believe it, they are still in their polythene covers and in pristine condition.

Next, it was on to our 3rd school of the day: St Peter's Primary. Despite Bernadette's request for no speeches and a low key visit, the school had organised a short (?) programme Malawian style to be followed. We toured all the classes and met all the children and staff who were present. Today, classes were doubled up inside the building because of the recent cold and wet weather. The children were excited to see "the visitors". All of them recognised "Bernadetta" with her well kent face. It was great to see everyone again. Finally, we had a meeting with the staff and members of the school Board. Mrs Irene Jerre who was over in Scotland was in charge of the proceedings. We saw how the school had developed the library from the funds received from St. Mary's Primary and the donation from St. Winning's Primary. What a difference! Pupils access books and sit in a very nice bright learning environment. When Mr Shaba and Mrs Jerre returned to St. Peter's after their visit to St. Mary's Primary they set up a Student Council with representatives from class 3 - 7. The Student Council gave a very warm song of welcome, then we received a report from the Council on how the funds were spent right down to the number of nails purchased. The staff have enthusiastically welcomed the development of the library: this appreciation they showed at the end of the meeting by bursting out spontaneously into song.

In the afternoon we visited the Women's Development Centre to touch down with them and to make arrangements for our 2 visits with the children. Modesta outlined how the ladies group are now helping children headed families (15 children in total). The ladies are very appreciative of the funds from St Matthew's which allows them to continue to support the orphans. Listening to her talk about the centre's work we were struck by how much the ladies manage to make a little help go such a long way. On Friday we will be having a games afternooon and the following Friday we will hold a celebration party which has been funded by donations from friends in Scotland. We are all looking forward to seeing the children.

After all the formal visits Bernadette led us in a leisurely tour of Mzuzu centre, visiting the market and shops. At the Market we purchased some fruit including an ugly green bumpy thing to have at dinner with the fathers. The unusual fruit turned out to be an African cucumber which had an unusual citrus tangy taste. After dinner and refreshments with the Priests it was time to turn in with the promise from Bernadette that tomorrow is a down day.

Paweme

Paul, Bernadette, Anne & Celia