Training Begins

Today we began the full time training. We have had a variety of students from those who have never turned on a computer to those who have already been writing and editing their own documents (limited editing). The classes have been small enough to accommodate some individual training. The response has been incredible. The users that were unable to even log into their accounts can now log on. To see users that were able to open a document, input information, save, and access that document again for the first time, has been exciting for all of us. And Jeff may have enjoyed this the most with the gentleman that typed “I love you Jeff” after Jeff assisted him in turning on a computer for the first time in his life.

Outside the classroom we have continued to be treated with so much overwhelming love and respect. The WELCOME we feel is not wavering at all.

During Chapel today a young woman / wife gave her life story about how she grew up in an abusive home where she and her mother were beaten regularly. Her mother had 3 husbands of which none were her real father. The third husband never accepted her because she was born out of wedlock and she could not even sleep in the house. At the age of 5, after one of her beatings she had said to herself that she wished for someone to come and take her away. Days later her mother’s sister (her aunt) came to visit and asked to take her home with her. Her aunt was a Christian and she came to know Jesus and to trust her life to Him. She is now a leader in her church as the children’s director and studying at the seminary here at NEGST. There wasn’t a dry eye among our group. The sad part is that this is a common story here in Africa.

After Chapel the students and faculty gather on the lawn for tea. On a beautiful sunny afternoon, enjoying a cup of tea with students that are just excited to meet us has been the norm.



Many students have openly expressed how excited they are for open lab this evening. For two hours we will all be present here in the computer lab to help individuals with any issues and questions they have. Many students as well as faculty have also expressed much interest in learning PowerPoint. Hanh has been spending all day working on a slideshow to teach the PowerPoint skills.

Culturally, we have had some fun experiences. Deborah tried to plug in her hairdryer last evening, yes she had a converter, but the hairdryer blew and caught on fire. Terri also tried to use the curling iron and melted the end off. I am sure there will be more to follow.