(Note: we are off to the village, and will get back to Internet in about 10 days.)
Discussing Common Social Issues with Tanzanian Teens
By Experimenters Maya and Jessie
The other day, we went to a secondary private school. We were split into groups with the task to come up with an issue in both American and Tanzanian society. Groups talked about teen pregnancy, drug abuse, and street children/homelessness. Each group turned their meaningful discussion into a poem, song, or skit. We then performed with our group in front of the entire secondary school. The experience of working with students our age, but in an entirely different continent was really cool. Talking to the students about our topics, but also about our life and culture was so interesting. It taught us that even in totally different lifestyles, teenagers act the same and can connect with one another. Overall it was a very special opportunity and unique experience.
Poem written by group #2: Experimenters Cara, Courtney, Daniel, and Carly in collaboration with six Tanzanian high schoolers
DRUGS
The poor buy from the rich in Tanzania
Which causes more corruption
But most of all, it causes greater poverty
And there is an increase of use
Even though there are a lot of laws
In the US, 17 is overloaded
Into the music, the TV, the movies
They lead to more violence and racial issues
Which one goes to jail
And the other is free
It grows by the fuel of capitalism
And people are pushing others
Leading to addiction
As in school, kids think it’s cool
But don’t know the consequences
Even though separated by the ocean
The problems still are the same
So together in the classroom,
People need to know about this enemy
The culture needs to change
You can’t know the risk if ignored
Drugs can bring laws if no laws are against it
As a society working hard can elevate poverty
If everyone is committed, drugs can be omitted
And together we can make a better world
Experimenters Ciara and Jessie with their new friends.
Experimenters Maya and Ali hanging out with new friends.
Experimenters with Tanzanian high schoolers.
Experimenter, Ali, preforming a skit about social issues in front of her peers.
