K-12 Outreach
We have delivered our multimedia presentation, consisting of video, slides, narration, and Zimbabwean music and original art, throughout the state of North Carolina on the elementary level up to the university level. The presentation has been helpful in dismantling stereotypes of Africa. Sadly, our mainstream media often presents a wholly negative image of Africa, focusing almost exclusively on ethnic conflict, famine, disease, and political corruption. We, however, talk about the success and hope of Zimbabwe. Indeed, Zimbabwe is home to some of the brightest and most committed students in the world. Seeing how these children value education, even in the midst of great economic difficulties, is inspiring.
Over the past 12 months, we have been to several K-12 schools in about 30 different counties. Also, we have presented a number of times to university students, to community organizations, and at teacher/academic conferences. In the process, we have traveled thousands and thousands of miles to present for thousands students, teachers, and academics. Check out where we have been.
The former Chancellor of UNC-Chapel Hill, the late Michael Hooker, supported us to continue our work with the K-12 International Outreach Program for the 1998-99 academic year. This outreach program is run out of the University Center for International Studies (UCIS).
I returned from Zimbabwe intent on bringing these students' stories to their peers across the state of North Carolina. Never once, though, did I think that the project would last as long as it has. In our original funding proposal, we promised to take the presentation to three local schools. We quickly surpassed that goal, presenting over twenty-five times during the 1997-98 academic year. Whether it has been presenting to 3rd graders in rural North Carolina or K-12 teachers from suburban New Jersey, I have enjoyed every minute of my experience. I only hope that others have been as inspired as I by these students.
- David
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