The difference between Malawi and Japan ～赴任後１３ヵ月～

1. People are hospitable and cooperative.

Like for example, one time, I was waiting for a bus, but transportation system in Malawi is poor. There are not enough buses. So I decide to hitch-hike, and fortunately, a car's driver let me get in and drove me to my destination.

Also, sometimes the teachers ask for some of my stationeries, which are really intended for students' materials. But I still lend them because they have to find other resources. At the same time, they return the favor to me by helping me when Im the one in need. They are very cooperative.

2. School system

In Malawi, students have to meet the passing grade in order to advance to the next level. If they don't meet the passing grade, they have to repeat the entire level. But in Japan, in junior high school, every one automatically advances to the next level regardless their grades.

3. Skin

Japanese skin is white or yellowish white. But Malawians's skin is dark brown.

I already warned some students not to call me by beckoning. I already stopped them from calling me by using hand or arm gestures but a few of them sill continue doing so.

I know the students' names who do it. I will call out their names while I am teaching.