Reality sucks!

As the Eid celebrations continue and there is more time to learn about how people operate here, it is clear that corruption is rife everywhere, and in the charity field/social enterprise field, it is no different. Or there is plain disorganization that means that money is inefficiently used and consequently sent back to the benefactor, typically some rich Arab geezer who just didn't know what to do with the extra change.

Sadly, I have learnt that someone is almost always making a fast buck from whatever they can. It's disgusting. I have even been involved in minor levels of this behaviour already: My host works as a contractor for the government and recently submitted a proposal to run a vocational training course on vegetable growing. According to her, this is not a new programme, but her application form is being majorly delayed. Now, my host's ex-boss contacted her and said he would like to meet me. So, he's taken us both out on day trips, apparently, to show me the Muzaffarabad area. In doing so, he's asked me many a question about my observations so far and where I think work should be focusing. I do believe that education is seriously lacking in this area now, with families not being able to send children to school. So, he proposed a business plan to me to open a school up and upfront asked for 350,000 rupees. Of course, I said that I'd think about it. But, it just so happens that this man is in charge of my host's vegetable growing application and he seems to be implying that her application may never be process unless she puts pressure on me to enter this school business. How mad is that?! I want to play this guy a this game somehow, but my host says to not bother because he's incredibly shrewd and I suppose I wouldn't want any repercussions for her. Fair point, but boooorrrrrriiiiiing!!

On the other hand, I've managed to secure some contact details of filthy rich Arab folk who I'm going to attempt to get some money from. They are big sources of unfd for this Kashmir area so are worth accessing. It's the longest shot of my life, but I'm fired up now...

Hope you are experiencing a relaxing corrupt-free life x