Im reading an excellent book that Joni has recommended detailing the specifics surrounding poverty and inequality in Colombia; Las Piezas del Rompecabezas (The Pieces of the Jigsaw). Its written by a pair of Spanish economists and relates specifically to the principle issues surrounding the Colombian education system. I have read a number of chapters and theres no doubt that it will provide a valuable source of contextual and statistical information.
On Friday afternoon, myself, Joni and Rodrigo went to a local private university (La Autonoma de Occidente) in order that Joni could present the results of his dissertation to a group of local academics. Once again, it is worth noting the high quality and modernity of these private institutions, though how much resource is set aside for the poor remains to be seen. Whilst it was largely a repetition of his Newcastle presentation, it is to his enormous credit that Joni did the whole thing in Spanish, which given the context was very intimidating. I say this having had to respond in Spanish to a few questions regarding my own presence in Cali and the extent of my own research. Ultimately, the whole event passed off extremely well, the group was friendly, positive and very interested in the scope of the research and the results. Locals contacts such as these will be invaluable for promoting our work in Colombia in the future.
One such contact is Teresita, a PhD student researching educational exclusion who spent 3 years studying in Belfast. After the presentations, we spoke about our backgrounds, particular areas of interest and the possibility of working together in the future. I left the university with a very real sense of purpose and optimism as I think todays events represented a whole new world of opportunity.
Having taken a siesta to recharge the batteries after a very demanding few hours myself, Joni and Letitia met up with Maria Jose and a few friends for an evening at a Salsa bar. Whilst I have forgotten almost all the moves I learned in Spain, it seems the Colombians dont take themselves too seriously and simply enjoy a good dance, as such the few basic steps that I remember were no impediment to a good time. We finally got home at 5 oclock in the morning.