Day 39 | Last Full Day in Malawi
Today marks our last day in Malawi. We started the day by taking a tour of the mental health facilities at Saint John of God, a hospital and university that offers extensive mental health and special education services to adults and children in the surrounding areas. Among these include primary and secondary schools with certified special education teachers, vocational training schools, and after school activities with educational components. Many of these were aimed at children and adolescents with physical or intellectual disabilities. After learning about the lack of special education resources and training in many schools like Chiputula Primary School, it was fascinating to learn about some of the resources available in Mzuzu. We were so fortunate to have a chance to tour the facilities with Michael Nyirenda, the Clinical Director of the Saint John of God Hospitaller Services.
After finishing some last minute errands during the day, we worked on our preparations for our going away party. We wanted to celebrate our time in Malawi and say our goodbyes. We invited many of the people that we met, including people from the District Health Office (DHO), Luke International (LIN), Mzuzu University, and Anno’s Africa. There was dancing, drinks, and lots of food, including a barbecue provided by LIN. We learned some traditional songs, and shared some heartfelt moments with the people who had become so important in our lives. Some of these people met each other for the first time, and there’s a chance that these connections will open the door for future collaboration between all of these amazing organizations!
There were many tears shed at the thought of leaving. This time in Malawi has been a whirlwind trip that will leave a lasting impact on all of us. As we think about heading home for Malawi, we wanted to share some of our reflections and thoughts about living in Malawi and the experiences that we’ve had.
The trip to Malawi really broadened my horizons. Through working on school projects, DHO projects, etc., we can really experience the culture, the local life, and the kindness of the people. Not only did I see the difference between countries, but I learned to look at these differences as opportunities for learning and mutual exchange. It’s also really cool to see how world organizations engaged in the projects. All the experiences have led me to have a wider view of the world. I believe these will all push me to become a better woman and to dedicate myself to global health issues.
Tiffany Lo
Highlights:
- Tour at Saint John of God mental health facilities
- Goodbye party with people we’ve met in Malawi
All the photos were taken by SHANTU (Verbal consent was obtained before taking the pictures)
Working with SHANTU and Luke International I learned so many new skills through collaborating with the local communities and working with my teammates. It was such an amazing experience that I will always remember and hope to use my experience to get others interested in global health and Malawi.
Jade Westlake
During our time in Malawi, we learned so much from various organizations and individuals about effectively promoting public health and behavioral change at the community level. Everyone was so warm and welcoming, and I feel so fortunate that so many people opened their lives to us. This is an experience that I will carry with me forever.
April Hill
Through the Malawi trip, I have learned the importance of understanding local cultures and building trusting relationships with the communities and partners to promote sustainable healthy actions effectively. The whole trip is an unforgettable experience that I will cherish forever!
Miku Kono
Six weeks in Malawi, working with the teachers in Chiputula Primary School and officers of the District Health Office, and seeing and learning about Malawi from their perspectives made me love this country. I will study and work hard to pave my way back to Malawi and work with them once again!
Rena Yokogawa
It’s been a valuable and special opportunity for me to work in Malawi with the amazing team. Everyone I met in Malawi was very warm and willing to share their experiences, and to interact with us. It was an unforgettable trip with exposure to different cultures, and it help me expand my worldview.
Penny Wu
