CHAPTER 4
GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAMME IN VIETNAM
In the 6D5N Global Education Programme trip to Hanoi , Vietnam , the students engaged in service learning , cultural appreciation , and physical exploration that fostered and embodied IB ’ s three CAS strands and aims . Elements of Creativity , Activity , and Service throughout the trip enhanced the students ’ personal and interpersonal development . These included experiences such as interacting with locals in both the city and rural areas , along with exposure to many cultural sites in Hanoi . This trip allowed opportunities for students to cultivate a sense of determination , reflection , and collaboration , traits that should be found in every Josephian .
At the start of the trip , the students spent time at the local school in Sapa , where they had the chance to interact with the local students by engaging in activities like soccer or the local game using bamboo , and also playing simple games to interact with them as a part of their English class .
With the aim of exploring Vietnam ’ s multifaceted ways of life , students journeyed to the mountains of Sapa , where they hiked to and stayed in traditional Vietnamese homes around 1500m above sea level . Totalling to over thirteen hours in three days , the hike through streams and mud tested both perseverance and cooperation .
Malvika Rohit Jamwal ( FN504 ) shared , “ As we hiked , I felt a strong sense of camaraderie among my friends . We helped each other and grabbed sticks from the ground when hiking through muddy areas to ensure no one fell . Reflecting on these memories reinforced the sense of shared SJI spirit that I carried with me to Vietnam , and reminded me that we never walk alone . There will always be someone to help us when we fall .”
The homestay served as a valuable reminder to the students not to take things for granted , and forced them to go outside of their comfort zones . This helped students learn values of community and bonding .
Xander Chew ( ML514 ) said , “ During my time in the homestay , I was warmly greeted by easygoing hosts who came to cook our meals . The homestay also offered authentic experiences like traditional meals that we shared with friends and the hosts . I really enjoyed my time without any gadgets or devices , and simply being in the company of others . The hillside landscape , coupled with the genuine interactions with hosts , made my stay a memorable and enriching experience .”
After the time in Sapa , the students headed to the city of Hanoi via sleeper train . The sleeper train was a great adventure for many , as amidst the confined spaces and limited amenities , the experience demanded an adaptation to unfamiliar conditions . That morning , they also went on a cultural expedition around Hanoi with a local guide , learning more about Hanoi ’ s history . The students visited Tran Quoc Pagoda , Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex , Hoa Lo Prison and Train street . The engaging guide shared additional information about the culture of the locals . This allowed the students to reflect on their own culture and lifestyle in Singapore .
One of our students going against a young local peer in a game they play during their break time in school
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