Experiences: St Paul KAASO

Daniel O’Kelly, from Australia, volunteered during the month of October 2007.

I have now been back in Australia for one week having been at St Paul/Kaaso for almost three weeks. I can’t believe that my time in Kaaso is already over. I will miss Kaaso and the children very much. Before visiting Kaaso, I had read and listened to stories about what I could have expected in Uganda. It was not until I got there that I realised what Uganda was all about, in particular, what it was like being involved in a small community in a rural area.

The first day that I arrived at St Paul’s was such a brilliant experience as I was greeted by many children. The children appeared with huge beautiful smiles and active little bodies. It was such a great introduction to my stay and volunteer work in Kaaso. Director Dominque introduced me as Uncle Daniel to the people around the school.

As my first day progressed, Director Dominque showed me my living quarters in the volunteer house, which consisted of everything I needed including a mosquito net. He also introduced me to the other volunteers Casey, Kate and Brian, all of whom made me feel very welcome. Every single person I met made me feel welcome, all asking whether I needed anything to settle in. I have travelled to many countries around the world and I would say that the people I met in Kaaso were one of the friendliest and most helpful people I have experienced in the world.

St Pauls /Kaaso was a beautiful school with so many fantastic children in it. I had opportunities to teach grades in Physical education which I enjoyed very much. Even though I may have had 70-80 children in a class, the children responded well and there was not one behavioural issue. It was a pleasure to teach such beautiful children. When talking to the children around the school they were very helpful. There were many times that I would be working within the school grounds and they would ask whether they could help. They also supported me with the local language. The children were simply amazing!!!

One of the many highlights that I encountered at St Pauls was the teacher versus children soccer match in which the children won 1-0. The teachers were genuinely trying to win but the children’s skills were no match for us. Seeing the children on the sidelines after the final whistle was priceless. Children were running on the ground celebrating with handstands, shouting and basically enjoying the moment.

For me to have access to the town Kyotera, I had to travel via boda boda. A boda boda was basically a motorbike that you jump on the back of. It was such a great way to go into town and the scenery was beautiful. On some stages of the journey there were views overlooking Lake Victoria.

Going into town in Uganda I experienced being called ‘Muzungu,’ particularly by young children. At first this concerned me but later I discovered that it meant white person. When I waved back to the children their smiles lit up from ear to ear. Kyotera provided most necessities. I could access the Internet, personal items, snacks and drinks. Buying a rolex from the street vendors was an experience I thoroughly enjoyed. A rolex is freshly cooked chapatti (similar to a pancake), which is then enhanced by a fresh omelette. Kate, Casey and I bought a few of these when we were there and even placed a fresh avocado in them. Delicious! And very cheap!
After travelling into town and then returning to St Paul’s, you will always be warmly welcomed by either the children or the Headmistress Rose, Director, Teacher Sarah or any other people at St Pauls.

During my stay I was offered to go to a variety of ceremonies such as introductions and Baptisms in and around the community. I enjoyed these opportunities as they were culturally important and were a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of. Hearing the children sing was one of my favourite memories, their voices were magical.

Even though my experience as a volunteer at St Paul’s was short, it certainly holds a special place in my heart. I already miss all the things about St Paul/Kaaso, from the beautiful sunshine waking me up in the morning and the best tasting avocado in the world to the best G-nut sauce made in Uganda and the great boda boda rides into town. Most importantly however, I will miss all the people at St Paul /Kaaso, particularly the fabulous children, who see the world so differently to those in western society. Their lives are so simple, yet they are so happy and content.

Thank you to Dominic, Rose, Sarah and all the teachers who made my stay very special. I could never forget to thank the children who put a smile on my face whenever I was near them. They were and are extremely special.

Thank you

Kind regards

Daniel