As part of the final stages of my placement, I got to visit Taunggyi Midwifery School, which is in Shan state near Inle Lake. Because the project in this school started a few months earlier than ours, I got a sneak peek at how the schools manage after a VSO volunteer leaves. I have to say I was impressed to see how sustainable these projects are. The staff were all still incredibly motivated and working hard to continue improving lessons.
Trainee midwives practising techniques
I spoke to the tutors and asked them what made the project a success, it really cheered me to hear them say that it was due to all the training they had received. Being coached and mentored by the VSO volunteers had given them skills that they now use to continue to push towards a better health care system in Myanmar.
It was heart-warming to see how proud the teachers were of what they have learned. I could see it on each of their faces, they have all achieved so much. Thinking about the tutors at my own college, it is exactly the same. It took time to build up trust with the staff, and for them to feel comfortable enough to ask me questions. But now I can see the pride they take in teaching, they are so chuffed with the extra skills they have developed. It makes me really confident and excited about the future of my college after I leave.
Me, the Principle (right) and her sister-in-law (left)
Travels with the Principle
I recently had another opportunity to travel in Myanmar, this time with the Principle and her daughter. I felt really lucky because I got to venture off the beaten track, beyond the typical tourist routes. I stayed with the Principle’s family and friends, it was a real privilege to be welcomed in to their homes.
However, there was one unwelcome visitor during my trip. Much to my horror, I discovered a rat in my room in Myitkyina. I managed to get rid of it by shining a torch in its face and making a noise. However, it got its own back the next night by eating my bar of soap and dropping my sponge down the long drop. I can’t say I was best pleased!
My beautiful earrings
Celebrations and goodbyes
On a sadder note, I had a goodbye ceremony at my college in Yangon just a few days ago. The staff hosted a final lunch for me and the students did a presentation, it was truly humbling to be made such a fuss of. They all sang traditional songs and kindly surprised me with leaving gifts; including a beautiful pair of earrings. It was an honour to be celebrated in such a way, but equally bittersweet because I will miss them all so much.
Lessons from Myanmar
As I have said before, the people in Myanmar are such a delight to work with. I have been extremely lucky to have such fantastic colleagues. We have raced through our work due to the massive bout of energy they put in.
I have learned a lot from all the tutors; about Myanmar, the local culture and customs, the importance of family and the need to look out for each other. Most importantly, they have shown a level of focus and passion for their work that consistently inspired me. The tutors here do not have the easiest life, their hard work often does not get the respect it deserves and this is reflected in their status. Their pay is incredibly low and many need to have second jobs to make ends meet. Yet I have never seen them show anger at the difficulties of their situation, in fact they remain cheerful and helpful. I have never met anyone like them.
Saying goodbye to the students
A final farewell
I can honestly say I’ve had a wonderful experience in Myanmar. Although the work has been challenging; my colleagues, the local people and the other volunteers have made this my best VSO placement so far. Would I consider a fifth placement? Absolutely. I’ve definitely got the ‘volunteering bug’!
Before I go, I want to say a massive thank you to all of you. Your messages have got me through some of the toughest times, I couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you so much for being part of my journey.
Looking to the future
Next time you will be hearing from another wonderful VSO volunteer, Marianne Bontenbal. She is off to Uganda to work in neonatal care. Marianne will be training midwives and health workers in essential health skills across the Gulu region. I can’t wait to hear all about it.
Thank you all again for your kind support.
Take care,
Carol
