Introduction:
In an era where global collaboration and cultural understanding are pivotal, Let’s Help International (LHI) is taking the lead in fostering connections through its Education Program. The Penfriend Project, a brainchild of Germán Fernández Ramos Public School in Oviedo, Spain, is a testament to the power of international partnerships in nurturing friendships across borders. This initiative, supported by LHI, brings together 85 children from Germán Fernández Ramos Public School and Kyaka II Refugee Settlement in Uganda, creating a platform for cultural exchange and mutual learning.
About Germán Fernández Ramos Public School and LHI:
Germán Fernández Ramos Public School, spearheaded by the visionary 2nd-grade Spanish teacher Susana and her colleague Vanesa, has partnered with Let’s Help International to make the Penfriend Project a reality. LHI, an organization dedicated to humanitarian efforts and global education, recognizes the importance of fostering global citizenship from a young age.
The Collaboration Process:
The Penfriend Project unfolds with a connection phase in the first week of November. Students from both schools exchange introduction letters, sharing details about their age, families, hobbies, favorite sports (aligned with the Olympics project), and preferred activities. This initial exchange lays the foundation for meaningful connections between the Spanish and Ugandan pen pals.
As the holiday season approaches, the second week of December brings an exchange of Christmas cards, adding a festive touch to the project. This gesture not only embodies the spirit of the season but also contributes to the cultural richness of the exchange.
Moving forward into February, the students create and share athlete profiles, delving into the stories of Olympic Refugee Team members, Spanish athletes, and Ugandan athletes. The compilation of an online book featuring these profiles becomes a lasting testament to the bonds formed through this unique initiative.
The culmination of the Penfriend Project occurs in the third week of March. A farewell event allows students to bid adieu through a virtual meeting on Microsoft Teams, the official communication channel of Germán Fernández Ramos Public School. Heartfelt farewell videos or cards may also be exchanged, providing a tangible memento of the friendships formed during this enriching journey.
The Penfriend Project, born from the collaborative efforts of Germán Fernández Ramos Public School and Let’s Help International, goes beyond a mere letter exchange. It serves as a beacon of hope, breaking down cultural barriers and nurturing a generation that embraces diversity with open hearts and minds. As children from Spain and Uganda come together, supported by LHI’s commitment to global education, the Penfriend Project is sowing the seeds of lifelong friendships and fostering a sense of global citizenship. Through initiatives like these, LHI continues to be a catalyst for positive change, emphasizing the importance of connection, empathy, and understanding in our increasingly interconnected world.
