Kiya's realization there is still so much to do and so little time

Wow. I still cannot grasp that my time here in Cape Town is coming to an end. The change in weather is definitely evidence of that. I have so many thoughts I do not know where to begin. I have been horseback riding on the beach and paragliding, two things I could never imagine myself doing. My internship is going pretty well. I have attended so many Women Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill (WEGE bill) hearings. Currently the bill has been adopted by the National Assembly and is now being mandated amongst provinces. The bill has its pros and cons for sure. For the women representing various NGOs, they believe the WEGE bill is solely a 50/50 bill meaning it only ensures that women are represented equality in all sectors. There are many issues with this bill sadly. It does not benefit the women who need the most help, the black women especially in the Townships. It was stated at a civil meeting that people are not satisfied with the write up of the bill because it focuses on LGBTI issues instead of violence against women and women rights. I am eager to speak to more people about the bill. We are suppose to fly to another province to speak to other women sectors within the next few weeks.

I am learning so much here. Last night during class we had an interesting discussion about education and what makes a good school. It made me think about my interest in industrial and organizational psychology related work and how cool it would be to create structure in schools. I find it to be so important for school to run on a well oiled system that is inclusive of all parties involved. The comparison of U.S students and South African learner`s attitudes provided insight to what education means for me. For some, usually people who are struggling in impoverished environments, their hunger for a way out gives them the needed motivation to go to school and  participate fully. How we view the importance of education can sometimes depend on the opportunities we have. This is not to say that people with endless opportunities do not value education but just to start a conversation about why students in areas like South Africa appear to be more appreciative of school.

I am finding that just the discussions I have been fortunate enough to have with people here is probably the most treasured experiences I will be taking back with me. So much more to do with so little time.