Pathfinders Diary: Answering tough questions in Uganda

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Pathfinders ProjectBy Sarah Henry

The Pathfinders are now well into their stay at the Mustard Seed School in Busota, Uganda, and while there are similarities to Kasese, every new situation presents new challenges.

Like in Kasese, Conor Robinson has something to say about the religious standardized tests given to every Ugandan student. His most recent post regarding the Uganda education system deals with the fact that religious education is imbedded in every class, including a basic comprehensive English lesson! 

Also, like Kasese, the Pathfinders are forced to deal with personal questions and comments every day.  Not only is this experience meant to teach humanism and give to these communities, but the Pathfinders are also there to provide a glimpse into the United States whenever the children, or the teachers themselves, inquire.  Wendy touches on the education aspect of this challenge as she reviews a discussion that she and Michelle had with students in which homosexuality, gay marriage, straight marriage, war, gun rights, and dowries were just a few of the controversial topics.  Mustard Seed Q&AMichelle also has run into personal questions that require delicate handling. When a teacher came to her and requested not only that she take a picture of him, but also that she show it to family members, she worked through possible solutions and came up with an apropos explanation of the situation.  She also handles the disbelief at her unmarried and childless state with grace.

While the Pathfinders are working to spread education and goodwill, they also deal with personal struggles.  Michelle recently killed her first bug! (And enjoyed a bug-bite free night.) 

Soon, the Pathfinders will be in Ecuador, working with FBB’s Q4 Poverty and Health beneficiary, Water Ecuador. Don’t forget to check out Conor’s article about Pathfinders Project in the latest issue of American Atheist.