UMUDUFU ALLE MEDIE Project for Middle schools (age 11-13)

Maggio 14th, 2008
Posted in Scholarship

since june 2006

The “UMUDUFU alle medie” project was born (in 2006) out of a desire to sensitise and confront each other on the North/South divide through a closer look at the Rwandese culture as seen through the eyes of Association members who are in direct contact with the territory and the people there since the existence of UMUDUFU.

Through the exposition of our experiences and knowledge, through images and the history of Rwanda, our aim is to sustain the spread of a culture of justice, of equality, of respect, of solidarity and of open-mindedness even on our own territory.

In fact we cannot possibly think of improvement in living conditions of the Rwandan people, and more generally of the South, as a process which is totally independent of the dynamics of the socio-economic system and lifestyle of the North.

Therefore we propose moments of reflection, of discussion and of sensitisation in order to stimulate the formation of a responsible conscience that is open to self-criticism and to global dynamics.

The purpose of the project is to inform, sensitise, deepen our knowledge with regards to the reality of Rwanda and to inform our consciences with regards its story and reality.

Analyzing the causes and the consequences of Rwandese genocide may also lead to an understanding of the history of a territory, namely that of the Great Lakes Region, that is still disturbed by wars, conflicts and political instability.

Through the exposition of the daily life of Rwandese people, particularly with regards to health issues, education and above all the question of survival, we are seeking to focus attention on the imbalance between the North and the South, the rich and poor countries, and thereby inviting critical reflections.

By displaying our projects, we wish to promote voluntary service, solidarity and solicitude toward everyone.

Through culture, songs, fine local products, we want to engender an inter-cultural way of thinking, giving students the necessary knowledge that will allow them to comprehend the complex and “globalized” culture in which they live.

Methodology

We propose therefore, a short course, characterized by a meeting with an expert, two meetings of two hours duration each and a representation of the theatrical show “Ridirwandaridi- Racconti di un bambino silenzioso (the story of a silent child)” by Elisa Canfora.

During the course, we will analyze the history of Rwanda (the 1994 events in particular), the actual state of the world and reflect on world events. Audio-visual aids in the form of videos, pictures, typical songs will be used. Local products and an exposition of our projects and experiences will also be on display.