RUG005 - Literature and Education

Dates: 30th of August to the 14th of August
Location: The republic of Altai in the South-East Siberia
Background Information: The project is held in cooperation with the Russian Office of Exupery Heritage Association and the Ministry of Education of the Altai republic. One third of the population of the republic are Altaians, the official language is Altaian. Although the Altaian language is widely used in everyday life (mass media, schools) it is pushed out by the Russian language which has a higher social status than the native one. The annual amount of the literature issued in Altaian has seriously decreased. The mission of the camp is to distribute the recently issued Altaian translation of “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupery among the schools in remote villages and towns. The republic of Altai is situated in the South-East Siberia, near the Mongolian and Kazakh borders. It is famous for its mountains and natural resources, as well as for its unique culture. The camp itself doesn’t really have a permanent location since you will move from one village from another. You will start from the capital of the republic Gorno-Altaisk and move along the route established.
Project Tasks: You will prepare the presentation of the book and a small performance to be shown to the schoolchildren. You will also write a camp diary and make a report about your impressions. You will probably talk to the mass media representatives.
Who Can Participate?: Anyone with an interest in assisting.
Optional Activities: You will have a couple of free days in Gorno-Altaisk as well as a number of days camping in the Altaian nature which is famous for its exceptional natural beauty. During the camp you will have a chance to learn about the traditional Altaian arts & skills (khoomey, dances, shaman ceremonies, etc.)
Placement Costs: Food and accommodation provided for free to all volunteers.
Meals: Food will be provided by the schools, but there is a chance that sometimes you will have to prepare the food yourself in the shared kitchen. Please note that the vegetarian food is not easily available in Altai since vegetarianism historically is not popular in that area.
Accommodation: You will stay at the schools and host families. Mats and shower will be provided, but the sleeping bag is necessary.