2024-09-21 15:30:31
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Four (4) new Peace Corps volunteers were sworn in this Friday, September 20. This adds to the list of nearly 1,800 American volunteers since 1962.
After 12 weeks of training in the national language and French, as well as in Guinean culture, the 4 new volunteers, including 2 men and 2 women, all mathematics teachers, will serve in the prefecture of Boffa (in Mankountan and Koba Dixinn) and in the prefecture of Dalaba (in Fonfoya and Bodié) for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 school years.
Present at the ceremony, Peace Corps Country Director Roland Pritchett reminded the new volunteers that many challenges await them during these 2 years of service to the communities where they will be assigned. “Your adaptability, your listening skills, and your determination will be your best tools to overcome the obstacles that will come your way. We wish you immense success in your service. You carry within you not only the hopes of those around you, but also the spirit of service and solidarity that will guide each of your actions. I would also like to express my gratitude to our host families who have graciously opened their doors and homes to our interns. The speed with which our volunteers learn French, local languages, and Guinean culture is remarkable.”
In his speech, the Ambassador of the United States of America to Guinea, HE Troy Fitrell, took the opportunity to recall that this year, we celebrated 60 years of the Peace Corps presence in Guinea and this longevity is a testament to the deep relations between Guinea and the United States. “The presence of our volunteers in the community of deep Guinea always encourages understanding and friendship between our nations. The Peace Corps continues to play a key role in strengthening capacities in the fields of education, public health and agriculture, as well as the capacities of certain development organizations. Today, I am extremely pleased to see the arrival of this new cohort which will add to the legacy of the Peace Corps.
SE Troy Fitrell added, “The training they have just completed with the Peace Corps has prepared them to serve alongside their Guinean counterparts. I am confident that this group will amplify the impact of the Peace Corps, building positive relationships in our host communities. In welcoming these four new volunteers, we recognize not only their potential, but also their role in continuing the rich legacies forged by the volunteers who serve them.”
On behalf of the new Peace Corps volunteers, Angela Cottrell expressed her delight at learning the French language, Guinean culture, and mathematical pedagogy from an exceptionally patient, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic staff, while living with extraordinary families who facilitated their immersion into the Guinean way of life. “Today, I am incredibly proud to say that what started as four ignorant and unassuming interns have grown into a group of dedicated teachers, well equipped to take on any challenge that may come their way. And we can’t wait to begin our challenge,” she said, thanking everyone involved in making this happen.
On behalf of the Guinean Government, Facinet Conté, Secretary General of the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation, finds the presence of these new volunteers beneficial to qualify the Guinean school. “This aid comes at a time when we need to strengthen the teaching of Mathematics. In Guinea, the logic that Mathematics gives to learners is essential in learning. And seeing today four friends, coming to us from the United States, serving in our different localities particularly in the teaching of Mathematics, is really something beneficial,” he rejoiced.
Mamadou Yaya Barry