Only three weeks after their working visit to a primary school in Elmadağ, volunteers from The Sun Rises From the Village (Günköy) project, part of the TDP (Toplumsal Duyarlılık Projeleri/Social Awareness Projects) student volunteer organization, spent the weekend of December 3-4 helping another school, this time in Kayseri.
During their time at Delialiuşağı Primary School, the volunteers split up into two groups. While the construction group was at work converting an old, unused classroom into a functional library, the education group was working with the school’s students, endeavoring to nurture their individual abilities through a variety of activities. In smaller groups dedicated to general knowledge, theater, art, sports and science, the children had a very enjoyable and instructive time over the two days of the volunteers’ visit.
The general knowledge class featured competitions that focused on information flow rather than winning. The children not only learned new things but also communicated effectively with each other as well as with the volunteers.
In the music class, children were able to become familiar with musical instruments they had never seen up close before. They also received information and encouragement about which path to follow if they were interested in music. Children participating in the arts class enjoyed handicraft activities that helped them set their dream worlds free.
The volunteers conducting the science class were more than rewarded by the eager curiosity that shone on their students’ faces, as they got the chance to conduct experiments that were completely new to them. Children in the theater class had a lot of fun participating in games that also developed their creativity. Members of the sports class enjoyed playing basketball and football as well as exercising in a tailor-made Zumba activity.
The Günköy volunteers, who worked tirelessly for two days in order to improve children’s lives, were welcomed with warm hospitality by the village residents. The school principal and teachers, who gave the volunteers every possible assistance during their visit, expressed their sincere gratitude during the opening of the new library. The volunteers left the village warmed by the smiling eyes of the children as they waved good-bye and urged their visitors to come again.
