(MENAFN - Arab News) Al-Waha international school recently organized the Language Fiesta. This cross-curricular activity aimed to celebrate differences in language, lifestyle, economic status and more, through an exhibition of the worldwide cultural heritage. It was a significant step towards fulfilling its responsibility of training young minds to evolve as global citizens.
The event started off with a spectacular parade with participants divided into different groups, which represented Saudi Arabia, France, United Kingdom, India and Pakistan. A soulful amalgam of national anthems, rendered in Arabic, English, French, Hindi and Urdu (the five languages taught at the school), created an aura of universal national fervor that left no one untouched by its pathos.
A Glimpse into World Culture, an informative and detailed presentation, was next on the agenda. It took us around different parts of the world, in just twenty minutes! Little did we know that the enchanting event was about to get even more mesmerizing, because it was time for the Costume Parade. The beat of the daff, a percussion instrument, provided the rhythm. Cheers from the audience fueled this exhibition of the national dress of these five great nations.
Five different stalls, representing the countries, showed a learning journey of the language, literature, typical products, artifacts, cuisine and much more. In the Arabic station, incense burned and the famous qahwa (coffee) was served with delicious dates. The French station hosted baguettes, showcased a miniature version of the Eiffel Tower, and other souvenirs. The Pakistani stall displayed craftwork, bangles, dresses, food and depicted a live scene of a typical Pakistani wedding. The Indian stall was adorned with a wide array of cultural mementos, representing India's grandeur.
The British station outlined the UK's entire history, listed all the cultural achievements of the kingdom and described the evolution of the English language itself. A short, humorous skit, written, directed and enacted by the students themselves, had visitors in splits of laughter while adroitly celebrating the differences between American and British English.
It was truly an event to be remembered: Enjoyable, informative and full of learning experiences. The message was simple but profound. Unity, indeed, lies in diversity!
