Memories of cowboys in India as students endorse course evaluation charity option
Published on 16 May, 2013
CQUniversity Learning Management students Samantha Hearn and Megan Findlater still have strong memories of volunteering as teachers in New Delhi earlier this year, remarking on the amazing diversity of middle class and slum areas right alongside each other...
One of their strangest memories was sitting on saddle seats in a Mexican restaurant, being served by Indian waiters dressed as cowboys while listening to reggae music being played by a Tibetan.
Some of their fondest recollections were times spent teaching former street kids who are being helped by the Salaam Baalak* charity, which CQUniversity helps to sponsor.
"They had a lack of teaching resources but we stuffed our suitcases to ensure we had some to use," Megan says.
"It was great to see how far Salaam Baalak has come since it was set up."
Samantha is proud to have contributed to the charity's educational programs and thinks the children gained plenty despite language challenges.
"They have to deal with a succession of teachers with Aussie, American and British accents," she says.
Both Megan and Samantha are encouraging CQUniversity students to help raise funds for Salaam Baalak by nominating the charity during course evaluations each term.
Students providing feedback for course evaluations have the option of being in a prize draw or to give up their place so funds can instead flow to Salaam Baalak or CQUni Cares (financial assistance for students in need).
CQUni learning management students pictured with one of their classes in India
Students can provide course feedback via their online 'Moodle' site (via the 'Have Your Say' big red button) each term.
You can also LINK HERE to support the Salaam Baalak Trust
* Salaam Baalak Trust provides support services for children in difficult circumstances. Each year, it reaches out to over 5000 children through 17 full-care and drop-in shelters and outreach programs in the national capital region of Delhi.
