St Aloysius Gonzaga School had the privilege of teachers Prof Marcella Valvo and Ms Sara Blandini from Instituto Leone XIII, Milan, Italy visiting the school from 19 to 24 February 2023. This visit was intended towards future student exchange programmes between the two schools. We are school partners for British Council projects and e-twinning projects since 2015.
During the 5-days visit our Principal introduced the Italian teachers to the vast campus of St Aloysius Institutions, the main highlights of the campus; the world fame St Aloysius Chapel, museum, facilities, infrastructure and different institutions functioning on the campus. They met the Rector Fr Melwin Pinto SJ and Fr Leo D Souza Director of the Bio-Technology department who is a great supporter of international collaboration. Both the Italian teachers had a fruitful interaction with Principal Fr Melwyn Anil Lobo SJ and the staff.
The visitors were given a comprehensive idea of various aspects of the school in terms of best practices of teaching-learning, morning assembly, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, cultural activities, subject-wise labs, eco-friendly initiatives, sports activities, outreach programmes and activities of the Kindergarten section.
A special assembly showcasing the dance and singing talents of our students was organized for the Italian teachers, on 22 February 2023. Students were encouraged by their appreciative gestures. They said that the student exchange programmes have a global perspective and provide an opportunity to develop understanding and tolerance towards other cultures. They were grateful to the Principal and staff for the grand traditional Indian welcome and hospitality they received. The Principal in his address highlighted the international collaborative activities conducted by the school right from its inception and said that the school looks forward to having student exchange programmes in future.
The visitors were also introduced to the significant local landmarks of the city, the main tourist attractions in Udupi-Manipal, Moodbidri-Karkala and the diversified nature of Indian culture and heritage. We mutually bid goodbye with gratitude from the heart. The 5 days visit was coordinated by Ms Aparna Suresh, coordinator for international collaborative projects.
