Description

Pamoja provides a model for teachers and students to promote human rights and development education within their school. The teachers and students taking part carry out awareness-raising activities based around Trócaire’s Lenten theme.

Past themes have focused on Climate Change in Kenya, Gender Inequality in Malawi and Hunger in Rwanda. Each theme is deeply rooted in global inequality and human rights. The 2011/2012 focus country is Uganda and the theme looks at how communities are rebuilding their lives after years of conflict.

The Pamoja project can be undertaken as part of a Development Education module, as a Transition Unit or within a subject class or Peace and Justice Group.

The project is constructed around the three academic terms in the school year to assist in the planning, in the organising of activities and the evaluating of the project.

• Term One focuses on Analysis; helping teachers to start the project, to explore development issues and to research the Lent theme and country of focus.
• Term Two focuses on Action; helping teachers to decide and plan their actions.
• Term Three focuses on Reflection; helping teachers to evaluate and reflect on the project.

While Trócaire provides a school with support and assistance, activities are all student-led and student-centred

In order to support schools undertaking a Pamoja project Trócaire provides a contact person who is available by way of visits and phone calls during the year. Trócaire also provides education resources, information on the Lent theme, activity days and certification on completion of the project.

Suggested use: The Pamoja project can be undertaken by teachers as part of a Development Education module, as a Transition Unit or within a subject class or Peace and Justice Group.