Cuttington University Thursday; Back to Monrovia Friday

Deb and Gifford here. We are at the library at Cuttington. After touring the facility we are now in the office (with AC I might add) going on to the Internet. Not quite jumping on since it just took 20 minutes to log onto the blog and get the new post page loaded.

First, Don and Clifton returned from Lofa just after lunch. They had a variety of experiences in the more remote area, and that will be the subject of a future blog post. Their primary stops were to visit schools and a few parishes. This first-hand look has helped illuminate some of the challenges in reaching rural Liberia, that were expressed in earlier discussions.

Chapel on Cuttington University Campus, with guest house in the distance to the right

Meanwhile Lissa, Gifford and I have been busy on campus. We were sent to explore, so that was our focus. The hosts must think all the Americans do is ask questions but nobody can say we are not enthusiastic learners.

Lissa's observations were rolled up into a document that may help the health sciences to put in place a master's in nursing. Gifford spent time visiting and speaking at a history class. He also was part of the conversation with Mr. George Jalla regarding the vision for the Episcopal schools K-12. I hopscotched around more, with a focus on communications. I saw the dean of  liberal arts, and the director of the TV and radio station. I discovered that, in collaboration with Temple University in Philly, they plan to start a Mass Communications Certificate program next September. Very exciting, and I believe these electronic opportunities could be part of what helps connect Liberia and Ohio more closely if the companion relationship continues to develop.

In the meantime, Cuttington University students are going to conduct a series of interviews with other students, explaining their various majors now as the youth voices in Liberia. Then they will talk about their vision for their own and Liberia's future. I plan to have students in the US speak about those same topics and all of the 1 to 2 minute videos will go up on YouTube so they can be shared. I am extrememly excited to have the parts in place to open this line of communication that will bridge the Atlantic.