Student Exchange Wuppertal-Gliwice

About the Project

During the German-Polish exchange in Gliwice, participants had the unique opportunity to integrate and learn about each other's cultures through a variety of activities. The programme included city exploration, engaging thematic workshops, sports activities, and shared meals, fostering a sense of community. Participants also visited significant historical and cultural landmarks, gaining a deeper understanding of local history and traditions. The days were filled with diverse experiences, ranging from sightseeing and sports to barbecues and team-building games. The exchange concluded with a heartfelt farewell, leaving participants with cherished memories and lasting international friendships.

Places We Visited

During the exchange, we had the opportunity to explore several significant locations that helped the German group connect with the history and culture of Poland. Below is a list of the places we visited:

Auschwitz (07.10.2024)

On that day, we warmly welcomed our German guests, students from the vocational college in Wuppertal, in front of the ‘Ślązaczek’ youth hostel. Following the welcome, we embarked on our first visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, marking the beginning of a two-day study programme. The visit offered a sobering insight into the harsh realities of daily life for the prisoners in this camp. Even on the first day, the experience left a profound impression on us, setting the tone for deeper reflections in the days that followed.

Auschwitz - Birkenau (08.10.2024)

The second day of our visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau was equally intense. We continued our tour of the museum, deepening our understanding of the events and the fate of those imprisoned in the camp. Additionally, we participated in an educational workshop titled “Eleventh. Don’t Be Indifferent,” which emphasized themes of tolerance and empathy. The speaker explained how easily stereotypes can evolve into prejudice and discrimination, making these reflections especially meaningful in such a profound and historically significant setting.

Kraków (09.10.2024)

On the following day, we visited the Jewish Museum Galicia, where we had the extraordinary opportunity to meet a witness to history—a survivor of Auschwitz who, as a child, endured the horrors of the concentration camp. His deeply moving story left a profound impression on us. Later, we strolled along the Royal Road in Kraków, guided through the city’s charming corners and immersed in its rich history. The beauty of Kraków provided a refreshing contrast to the emotionally challenging experiences earlier on our trip, offering us a chance to appreciate the unique atmosphere and cultural heritage of this remarkable city.

Gliwice and Chorzów (11.10.2024)

On the fourth day, we had the pleasure of introducing our German guests to Gliwice. Divided into Polish-German groups, we participated in a field game that helped our guests discover some of the city’s most fascinating spots. To reward their enthusiasm and effort, we handed out sweet treats, and students from ZSTI gave their German peers a tour of the school. After lunch, we headed to the Silesian Park in Chorzów, where we enjoyed a ride on the Elka cable car, taking in beautiful views of the park, zoo, and amusement park. The day concluded with a barbecue, followed by games of padel, tennis, and football. The atmosphere was filled with fun and opportunities for bonding, making it a perfect day for integration and connection.

Photo source:https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gliwice_old_town.jpg Photo previously published on CC license:https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en

Ustroń (11.10.2024)

After breakfast, we headed to Ustroń, where we had planned to take the chairlift to Mount Czantoria and try the toboggan run. Unfortunately, the capricious weather disrupted our plans, but a pizza outing quickly lifted our spirits. We then continued to Równica Mountain, where we enjoyed an exciting adventure at the rope park. In the evening, we returned to Gliwice, tired but happy after such an eventful day. On the following day, 12th October, our guests departed for Germany, and we are already looking forward to our return visit to Wuppertal!

Student Exchange 2024