Day 4 (26 May) and the progress at our project site is going on well.
We had to paint the window frames as well as
construct another two more window frames. We also had to cover the floor of the
classroom with rocks which the workers then pounded flat into the soil ground
using a rudimentary pounding ‘machine’ which the locals call an ‘elephant foot’. This ‘machine’ comprises of a log and two wooden poles and took a lot of
strength and effort to use.
Passing large rocks to fill the floor
The same classroom floor after pounding with the elephant foot
‘machine’
We also had a chance to visit the homes of two villagers
with Mr Khorn. The villagers were very friendly and kind to give us this
opportunity to learn more about their lives. We took a peek into the rice
storage house and the students were allowed to climb in to take a closer look.
The secret ingredient that goes into the making of this wall is actually cow
dung!! The wall is made from a mix of cow dung, cement and straw. The purpose
of this is to keep the rice grains warm so that they do not spoil. The students
who went in can certainly attest to the warmness of the storage house!
Alzac, after his sauna treatment in the Rice Storage House.
The houses belong to villagers who were considered to be of
the middle-class range. The houses cost between a range of USD 16,000 – USD
40,000 for a 9m by 6m piece of land. The living quarters can be found on the
second floor and the space is not compartmentalised. Everyone in the family
shares the space for sleeping or for entertainment etc. The family we visited
had 5 children so they all had to share the space. Three of the children go to
the school which we are currently helping.
The Village House which belongs to a farming family
Group Photo with our friendly and welcoming host family.
Reflections
“In Singapore, we always brush our teeth without turning off
the tap. Even when we are bathing, we do not turn off the shower when
shampooing etc. But here, we need to remember to turn it off whenever we can
because the others still need to use the water. Also the water here has a
strong smell. I really appreciate the clean water we have in our homes.” –
Sufyan, 3A3
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