Today was very eventful compared to yesterday's bus journey and wheelchair workshop. We started off the day with a short Khmer lesson and then went to conclude our collaboration with Nobel Peace Prize winner Mr. Tun Channareth. He talked to us about the danger and prevalence of cluster munitions and landmines in Cambodia, and the work that he and his organization does to protect Cambodians by clearing all landmines by 2025. After a meaningful discussion on actions and making a positive change to the world, Silong (our tour guide) taught us about the Cambodian education system and responsible tourism and charity. We talked about how to best approach donations in order to ensure that they are used effectively and go where they are needed most. We learned about the different approaches to and difficulties with education in the United States versus Cambodia and how to help resolve the most important shortcomings of each.
After lunch, we went to PEPY, an educational NGO which offers scholarships and study opportunities to disadvantaged students in an effort to break the cycle of poverty. Despite the language barrier -- they had spent just three months learning English -- we had a great time getting to know the students and learning some of their favorite songs and dances. The students were really kind and genuine and we learned a lot from them. Later, we rode in tuk-tuks to the Siem Reap night market, a lively and vibrant bazaar accompanied by the luminescent glow of neon lights above storefronts and bustling crowds looking for a good time. Some of us even utilized our Khmer knowledge, bartering with shopkeepers for the best price we could get. Looking forward to tomorrow!
-Katie and Arjun
