Participants in the European youth student summer camp pose for a group photo. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxifao]
This year marks the 40th anniversary of friendly exchanges between Wuxi, East China's Jiangsu province, and Bocholt, Germany. In celebration, two youth delegations from Wuxi set off for Bocholt for summer study and cultural exchanges.
From June 29 to July 2, the first group of 43 students from Jiangnan Middle School departed for Germany. Upon their arrival, they were warmly welcomed by the municipal government of Bocholt. Vice-Mayor Elisabeth Kroesen of Bocholt personally greeted the students and wished them the best.
During their visit, the students had the opportunity to visit a local school, where they sat at the desks of their German peers and experienced an authentic German-style classroom. They explored Bocholt's rich culture through collaborative teamwork. Outside the classroom, the students delved into German engineering technology, exploring everything from ancient machines in industrial museums to cutting-edge innovations like intelligent robots, 3D printing, and digital twin technology.
From July 20 to 27, the second group of students from Wuxi joined the European youth student summer camp hosted by Bocholt, where they mingled with peers from cities in six countries including Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Vice-Mayor Kroesen attended the event once again, kickstarting a music-themed friendship journey.
Under the guidance of professional instructors, students formed teams based on their interests, engaging in various activities such as choir, band, piano, and dance. Over the course of a week, they collaborated closely to create and design programs, culminating in a vibrant multicultural music concert. Additionally, during the camp, students had the opportunity to visit Münster, renowned as the City of Peace in Germany.
As part of the 40th-anniversary celebrations of friendly exchanges between the two cities, a large citizen delegation from Bocholt is gearing up for a return visit to Wuxi in October this year.