More Orientation

This morning, we went over the language requirements. The language one learns is based on the assigned type of work and site and everyone must demonstrate a proficiency on the mid-intermediate level. Since I will be doing Small Enterprise Development (SED), my group will focus on learning French, mostly due to the reports and governmental rigmarole needed to be successful. If a trainee reaches the mid-intermediate level in his or her language before swearing in, then the trainee can begin learning another language pertinent to his or her site. Due to my level of French, I will jump right into learning a local language, which will most likely be Wolof.

In the afternoon, we had a cultural fair. We rotated between six stations that informed us about Senegalese life. They ranged from different fabrics and outfits, Islam, spices and food, food bowl manners, and well-water and toilet training. The last was the most interesting. Apparently, everyone has been told volunteers don't know how to get their own water nor wash their own clothes. Therefore, we had a well demonstration on the proper technique of lugging water out of a hole. Following that, we were demonstrated the best way to use a Turkish toilet. And let's just say, I know why the left hand is shunned. Thank God I'm SED! Most likely, I wont have this problem.