Article written by Cyan Muirhead, Video Interview by Karen Tho (TIS Class of 2018 Graduates currently interning in the Communications Department)
Since the commencement of the school year, two young men have braved an unfamiliar environment, an urban jungle of towering skyscrapers full of traffic, seeking ways to learn how to become better educators. Kong Meng and Lenger, preachers of education from Luang Prabang, Laos, were given the opportunity to come to Macau as part of TIS’ annual exchange program to learn techniques and strategies from experienced teachers on how to engage with students in the classroom. In addition to gaining new perspectives in their aspired field, Kong Meng and Lenger got to witness a new culture and surrounding, which opened their eyes to experiences so different to their hometown.
“There are many tourist places in Laos,” Kong Meng said, when we asked about Laos. “In Xiangkhoang we have the Plain of Jars; in Luang Prabang, we have waterfalls and temples; and in the south, in the jungle, we have Vat Phou – ruins of the ancient Khmer Hindu temple complex.”
Lenger who grew up in the countryside, shared what inspired him to become a teacher. “In Laos City, many children still reside in the countryside. When I was six years old, my family moved to live in the city, I have learned during that time. I really want to help the students in the countryside. I hope one day they can reduce themselves from poverty. We came to Macau because our country is an underdeveloped country, so it’s very hard to see high technology.”
Coming from beautiful rural Laos, what did Kong Meng and Lenger think of a bustling city like Macao? “I love it, because it is very different from Laos,” exclaimed Lenger, whose hometown’s traditional architecture has been preserved since colonial times. “In Louangphrabang city, which is also a World Heritage Site, we have no chance to see many tall buildings. When we come here and we see so many skyscrapers, it was very impressive. The people here are very friendly and that’s what I love a lot in Macau.”
Kong Meng echoed Lenger’s sentiments on Macau, “Macau interested me the first time I arrived, and I saw many buildings, they’re very high. The roads are clean, people are nice, and the environment is nice. We saw a lot of children here doing many good things and they study very hard.”
Lenger said as leaving advice for students everywhere, “I hope they work hard, keep studying hard, keep fighting and I hope one day they achieve their goal.”