Bridging Continents: A Successful Student Exchange Programme with ECU, Australia
A group of ten enthusiastic students and two esteemed professors from Edith Cowan University (ECU), Australia, recently concluded their exchange program at Samtse College of Education (SCoE), leaving behind a trail of cherished memories and strengthened international ties.
The Australian delegation, arriving on September 19th, 2023, was given a warm and hearty welcome by the Deans, program leaders, and their Bhutanese “buddy” friends at the College Guest House. The welcoming ceremony featured a joyous cake cutting, symbolizing the commencement of an enriching cultural exchange.
One of the Guest students, upon their arrival, expressed their delight and gratitude, saying, “We are thrilled to have landed safely in this beautiful and safe place, Samtse, Bhutan.”
Throughout their ten-day stay at SCoE, the Australian guests were actively engaged in a diverse range of activities, from morning classes to community engagements. They wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to engage in intensive and extensive knowledge sharing sessions with their Bhutanese buddies.
Tandin Selden, one of the buddies from SCoE, shared her thoughts on the exchange, saying, “It was a privilege to interact professionally and learn from our Guest friends from Australia. Their unique perspectives and insights have broadened our horizons.”
Dr. Sonam Rinchen, Dean of Research and Industrial Linkages said “I have noticed that the students are engaged meaningfully to learn from each other so that the cultural exchanges, discussions, and collaboration are at the heart of their experience.” Sangay Dema, BA Social Work student shared that it was a good moment to interact with foreign students and learn from them.
On September 29th, 2023, the day of departure, emotions ran high as the Australian guests bid farewell to their buddies at SCoE. Tears of sadness mixed with smiles of gratitude filled the air as the exchange students and professors prepared to return to their home country.
The SCoE buddies shed their tears and offered heartfelt prayers for the safe journey and bright future of their departing friends. The emotional farewell was marked by a sense of hope, with both sides eager to reunite and continue their academic and cultural exchange in the future.
The visit of the Australian students and professors to Samtse College of Education not only strengthened international connections but also reinforced the importance of cultural exchange programs in fostering global understanding and cooperation. The memories created during this exchange will undoubtedly continue to resonate in the hearts and minds of all involved.
