PLANNING MEETING

Sizwe, Pranesen and Joe were selected as representative of their respective schools. Gulshera was selected by Sweden as convenor of project. ( 6-21 May2009)

Progress:

• Photograph and research of the Umzimkulu River.
• Meeting with museum. Allocation of tasks.
• Interview and Selection of delegates.
• 1st pilot meeting on 11 March 2009
• Tasks delegated according to Ebbe's way forward.
• Study Circle topics agreed upon. Participants to undertake research and present information at meetings.
• 1st questionnaire on oral history interviews will be completed by Easter.

Read on - next progress report

Laila and Gunnar were spontaneously welcomed, by " hundreds" of children at Ekubusisweni Primary School

Ekubusisweni is situated approximately 70km inland from Port Shepstone, a deep rural area. CWSA, a NGO whose main objective is child protection within the context of family and community has linked Twinning to this community. According to Ekubusisweni Child Welfare, an affiliate of CWSA confirms that Twinning being the only organisation that has taken visitors from abroad and other racial groups to this community.

The purpose of this visit was to hold a discussion with the Board chairman, ( Child Welfare) ideas on Folkbildning and study circle as a method of learning and empowerment.

A strategic planning meeting,jointly with Gulshera, as the Area Manager, will identify overall community infrastructural needs such as water, electricity and sanitation and find some solutions as a way forward. Other challenges facing the youth, senior persons, children and women requires prioritisation.

Many parts of SA is still at this developmental phase and it is civil society that works with communities in ensuring these needs are met.