you can teach me english?

Well yes but…

Landing in Madagascar August 2022, TSAP Travel came here on a mission to break the ongoing cycle of voluntourism. Ensuring that all projects we deliver are sustainable but sustainable in the sense that when we leave in November delivery can continue. We also had our reservations around teaching English because this is a consistent activity in voluntourism and from our initial research we didn’t think it was needed.

However, getting back to Malagasy life, meeting with friends and the locals, it has become more and more apparent that people are desperate to learn the English language but there’s just no one here to teach them. In the 5 days that we’ve been in Nosy be we have met airline workers, tour guides, music promoters, police officers, servers and teachers who are looking for an English teacher.

Surprise!

We really didn’t anticipate the demand for an English teacher, as from our research and previous experience in Madagascar there was 2 to 3 organisations teaching English as a foreign language in Nosy be. So, it was really surprising that local people haven’t been able to access those services in the last 3 years. Despite the pandemic, throughout the last year organisations, among local people have been teaching English as a foreign language but often these classes aren’t accessible because of the rise in fuel prices or cost 25,000 to 50,000 ariary (roughly £5.55 to £11.11) per week and for many that earn less that £3 a day this just isn’t affordable.

Our Plan

Whilst we did not come here with a plan to teach English as a foreign language, we are fortunate that our CEO is a qualified TEFL Teacher, with teaching and mentorship experience and is DBS checked. Meaning that we are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to effectively teach English to the local people and in some cases children (in exchange for space).

To make the English lessons accessible we are going to do 8 1-hour lessons a week in 4 different locations and will be working with local Malagasy people who speak English, supporting them in developing the skills they need to teach when we are not here. In some cases, we will even be financing TEFL qualifications to ensure quality and efficiency for the people and children when we are gone.

Whilst many of the local English speakers have offered to be a part of this project on a volunteer basis, our plan is to raise enough money so that we can pay them to continue teaching and engaging with staff remotely.

Knowledge is Power

Even though we had completed a lot of research and engagements prior to landing in Madagascar. We have learnt so much in the short time we’ve been and have adapted our plans to suit the needs and demand of the people. A Malagasy friend said to me recently:

“Learning English changed my life, if I didn’t learn it then I wouldn’t have this job, I wouldn’t know so many people.”

That comment made me realise that teaching English isn’t a bad thing when done right and is actually a life line and a symbol of hope for many people here in Madagascar.

We’re looking forward to sharing our learning with you throughout our journey here in Madagascar and beyond and welcome you to support our local teachers through our donations page.