Teaching English, Shaking Hands, Building Bridges and Stepping into the Future!

The American Corner at the University of Kara is committed to the people of Northern Togo.

Evala has ended here in Kara, Togo. Evala, is the annual initiation ceremony for young Kabye men. It lasts about 2 weeks. During this festive time, there are wrestling matches, parties, dancing and feasting throughout the region. Fortunately for me, this was my second experience with Evala. Maybe, one day I'll experience it again. This year marks my final year in Togo and the end of a delightful academic fellowship. I have learned many things during my time here. The Kabye people have "schooled" me in traditional life lessons — lessons I had almost forgotten. These life lessons are rooted in the values of the Kabye people. Values (I should add) shared by all of GD’s children. Through my experience here, I have rediscovered the value of friendship, the beauty of nature, and the joy of being in a place. Additionally, I have come to understand the truth of the adage, "the road is made by walking."

Above all of these simple words is a picture: two academics from distant continents clasping hands as a physical sign of transatlantic friendship.  However, it’s not just a friendship between two men it’s also a friendship between two nations. For if you glance above the human hands your eyes will touch the great clasped hands within a banner. That banner signifies unity. The unity between Togo and the United States of America. As an English Language U.S. State Department Fellow, I was tasked with many important responsibilities. Two of which were English education and friendship initiatives. I have done my best to complete those tasks and fulfill those responsibilities. Lastly, the United States remains committed to Northern Togo, and so do I, both now and in the future.