Under the aegis of AFS, India, an exchange program designed to foster international understanding and cultural exchange among students, was recently hosted by Vidya Devi Jindal School (VDJS) in Hisar. A team of ten students and a teacher spent about ten days on thVDJS campus, immersed in a whirlwind of cultural activities and educational experiences.

The program commenced with an orientation session led by the school’s AFS coordinator, Ms. Sperdha Rathore. She welcomed the guests and walked them through VDJS history and the schedule for their stay. This initial meeting not only familiarized the visiting team with the school’s environment but also provided an overview of the upcoming events.

The subsequent days were filled with vibrant activities, starting with the Jindal Art Fest. The team participated in various cultural and art competitions, engaged in interactive sessions with other school teams, and enjoyed a delicious meal at the Principal’s dinner on August 7. The art fest served as a platform for cultural exchange and provided a glimpse into the rich artistic traditions of the institution.

The exchange program also included a series of enriching excursions. The students explored local historical sites like the Gujri Mahal and Jahaj Kothi, witnessed masterful engineering at the Jindal Steel Factory, and contributed to a meaningful service project with the NGO Bheek Nahi Kitaab Do, which focuses on providing educational resources to underserved communities.

Throughout their stay, the visiting students integrated seamlessly into the VDJS community. They attended regular classes, participated in sports, and even took a dip in the school’s swimming pool. Their involvement extended beyond academics and athletics, as they embraced the school’s hobby clubs and engaged in various extracurricular activities.

The exchange program was a tapestry of diverse experiences—from forging new friendships and immersing in classroom learning to enjoying sports, participating in hobby clubs, and contributing to social causes. The students also took part in lively jam sessions, where they danced and sang, adding a fun and personal touch to their cultural exploration.

As their time at VDJS came to a close, the school Principal, Ms. Naina Dhillon, hosted a special

high-tea event. The visiting students shared their experiences and discussed future plans, leaving with goodie bags and hearts full of positive memories. Farewell hugs and beautifully handmade cards exchanged with the staff marked a heartfelt conclusion to the program. The students departed with promises to reunite, taking with them lasting memories and new friendships forged through this enriching international exchange.