Teaching Astronomy 101 in Tawi-Tawi

During our recent Tawi-Tawi adventure, we visited Batu-Batu (“batu” or “bato” means stone) National High School in the municipality of Panglima Sugala.  In their science laboratory, Mandy immediately noticed a refracting type telescope in one corner of the room.  We were told by the teachers that the telescope was barely used since none of them knew how to operate it, although most students were eager to use it.    

Mandy checked to see if its still in good shape and started describing the many ways and means by which the telescope can detect the moon and constellation of stars.  Without batting an eyelash, the Principal asked Mandy if he could spare a few minutes with the students and stir their interest in Science by explaining the use of the telescope.  Mandy becomes the first guest speaker for Astronomy 101 in the island of Tawi-Tawi. Amen! 

(Notice the high school girls staring at their new teacher