In May 2022 our school had the distinct pleasure of hosting a remarkable student exchange program that brought together young minds from five different European nations—Romania, Spain, Northern Macedonia, Finland, and, of course, Slovenia, this time’s proud host country. This event not only celebrated cultural diversity but also fostered an atmosphere of learning and mutual respect concerning our Erasmus+ project topic of water.
From the moment the students from Romania, Spain, Northern Macedonia, and Finland arrived, our Slovenian host families welcomed them with open arms, providing them with a warm, familial environment. Each visiting country brought three students, creating a vibrant mosaic of cultures and languages under one roof.
Program Highlights
Sunday, May 15: The week was packed with activities designed to promote cultural exchange and collaborative learning. The event kicked off with a spirited get together of host students and families and our estemed guests who grew fond of each other the second they met. It was helpful that this was our second project meeting which allowed first contacts and fleeting friendships to grow and expand.
The program began with the arrival of all the teachers and students, followed by an introductory meeting and dinner at a restaurant. This set the stage for a week filled with engaging activities designed to deepen cultural awareness and collaboration.
Monday, May 16: The day started with a warm welcoming ceremony and a tour around the school. Students dove into creative workshops, including an art session led by Urška Glavnik and a traditional folklore dress and dance workshop. The highlight was the guided tour of Celje, including the historical “City under the city” and the Counts of Celje, enriching everyone’s understanding of the local heritage.
Tuesday, May 17: An exciting day trip to Šentjur and Rogaška Slatina included visits to a water treatment facility, the crystal workshop at Kristalna Rogaška, and a guided tour of Olimje, featuring the castle and apothecary. These experiences offered students practical insights into environmental management and local craftsmanship, the use of water for medicinal and tourist purposes as well as the possibilities nature has created for us as humankind to improve upon our lives and entrepreneurial endeavours.
Wednesday, May 18: The group explored Velenje, participating in water scientific workshops and visiting the coal mine museum for a real miner’s lunch. The visit to Velenje Castle provided a fantastic historical overview of the region and the day concluded by visiting a traditional Slovenian farm where water played a major role as a sourse of power for mechanical work as well as basis for growing crops.
Thursday, May 19: A mix of culinary and innovative incubator workshops allowed students to engage both creatively and intellectually. The day was rounded off with visits to Tehnopark and the majestic Celje Castle, culminating in a farewell dinner that celebrated the week’s friendships and collaborations.
Friday, May 20: The final full day included a trip to Ljubljana, where students explored cultural landmarks like Metelkova, Tromostovje, and the Ljubljana Castle. The day emphasized Slovenia’s rich cultural tapestry and vibrant urban life.
Reflections on the Experience
The meeting was universally praised by participants for its organization and the variety of experiences offered. Students and teachers alike found the activities not only enjoyable but also immensely educational. The interactions with host families enriched the visit, providing deep personal connections and a true sense of Slovenian hospitality.
The feedback from both the visiting students and their Slovenian peers has been overwhelmingly positive. Many described the experience as “enlightening” and “inspiring,” noting how it broadened their horizons and deepened their understanding of different cultures. The host families expressed great joy in having the opportunity to share their homes and hearts, making lifelong friends in the process.
As we reflect on this successful exchange, it is clear that such initiatives are invaluable for our project and people working in it. They not only provide our students with the tools to become global citizens but also sow the seeds of international friendship and cooperation that can last a lifetime. We are immensely proud of our students and grateful to the visiting delegations for participating in this enriching experience.
Perhaps our final thought would be that this meeting was more than just a meeting of young people from different countries; it was a celebration of unity, learning, and the unbreakable bonds that we forged. We look forward to more such opportunities that continue to bring us all closer in this global community. Our joint experience was a profound journey through diverse cultures and shared experiences. We are grateful to the students and teachers from Romania, Spain, Northern Macedonia, and Finland for joining us in Celje and making this event a memorable success. We look forward to continuing these wonderful relationships and exploring more opportunities for cultural exchange in the future.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this inspiring week, proving once again that learning knows no borders.
