By names I am Rek Luak Moses. I come from Bentiu, Unity State in Southern Sudan. I refer to my story as an excellent window because that is what Yei Teacher Training College (YTTC) is to me. When I came back from refuge after the signing of the peace agreement, I was shocked by the changes that had happened to Southern Sudan.
I noticed some bad things which could mean the end to any positive future, but I also noticed good things. Joining YTTC became an opportunity for me to see the world by learning a variety of subjects that I did not know of before. I now feel that I have not lost out on a bright future.
One lasting impression of YTTC that will stay with me is the tutors, with their excellent teaching methods, who motivate the students to always do their best. I was an untrained teacher before coming to the college. When I leave, I know I will make a difference in how I teach because I have learned new skills, attitudes and acquired methods that will aid my delivery of lessons.
Another good thing I have benefited from at the college is the morning and evening periods of worship. These have given me a positive outlook and now I can confidently stand in front of a large number of people to preach and pray aloud, something I could not do before. I will not leave this spirit in Yei but will take it with me to Bentiu. My people will say the college has trained Moses in two ways; as a teacher and an evangelist. I like that too, because there is no problem having two roles in the community.
The use of the English language as the main language for communication at the college has benefitted me greatly, as I have improved my speaking ability. I would not have had this opportunity if I'd had others who speak my mother tongue here and also if the college was not using English to teach. Additionally, the college library has enabled me to see the wider world. Apart from the course books, the extra reading books and magazines have made me happy and busy as I love reading novels, magazines and newspapers.
The visit by the Kyambogo University visitation team was a key highlight in my life this school term. This team which came to assess the college for affiliation status, boosted my morale, encouraging me to study more and pursue my dream of acquiring a degree. I never dreamed of being addressed by professors and individuals with doctorates, but it happened to me while at YTTC. Because of this team's visit I feel sincerely committed to teaching the children of Southern Sudan so that they reach such a level in their future. YTTC is indeed an excellent window for Southern Sudan in which one can learn and see a bright future.
By Riak Luak Moses