06 Nov 2023

In a remarkable display of cultural exchange, Ben Thema Primary School and Chigasaki Elementary School of Japan recently celebrated their 10 years anniversary since their collaboration for an art and cultural exchange programme.

This collaboration has brought together young minds from different corners of the world and this unique initiative aimed to foster creativity, understanding and appreciation for diverse artistic expressions. 

The partnership between these educational institutions was born out of a shared vision to broaden the horizons of their pupils and promote global awareness, particularly pupils in Standard Three.

Ben Them Primary School is situated Gaborone while Chigasaki Elementary School located in Yokohama, Japan.  

They recognised the immense value of exposing their pupils to different cultures and artistic traditions.

The Ambassador of Japan to Botswana, Mr Ohmori Setsuo said that the art exchange programme spanned a decade ago, during which the pupils from both schools engaged in a virtual discussion. 

“Through these interactions the pupils not only shared their artistic creations, but also learned about the historical and cultural significance behind each piece,” he said. 

Ben Thema school head, Ms Boitshoko Mokgethi said the collaboration between the two schools had showcased a wide range of artistic mediums of paintings and drawings that encouraged the pupils to express their creativity freely, resulting in a vibrant and diverse collection of artworks that reflected their unique perspectives.

“The impact of this cultural exchange was evident in the growth and development of the participating pupils, they not only honed their artistic skills, but also developed a sense of empathy and appreciation for different cultures,” she said. 

She further explained how the cultural exchange served as a catalyst for fostering open-mindedness and breaking cultural barriers as the pupils discovered the power of art in bridging gaps and fostering connections. Ends