"A global outlook is the lens through which we can see the interconnectedness of our world, recognizing that our actions and decisions have far-reaching consequences that transcend borders."-Anonymous
SAI International's Global Immersion Program 2023 embarked on an extraordinary journey from exploration to enrichment, leaving an indelible mark on all SAIoneers. Commenced on June 5, 2023, this transformative program to the United Kingdom provided students and faculty with a remarkable opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage, history, and vibrant culture of the United Kingdom. SAI International is a pioneering educational institution known for its commitment to providing students with unparalleled global exposure. Through meticulously designed activities, the program fostered cultural understanding, academic enrichment, and personal growth. From visits to iconic landmarks and institutions to engaging in cross-cultural exchanges, every moment was a stepping stone towards developing global perspectives and enhancing cross-cultural competencies. The program's impact was profound, equipping participants with invaluable insights and experiences that will resonate throughout their lives, inspiring them to become compassionate global citizens.
Global Immersion Adventures: Empowering Students to Thrive in a Globalized World
SAI International designs these global immersion programs to offer a transformative experience, allowing individuals to step out of their comfort zones and embrace diverse cultures, fostering a truly global outlook. The 10-day GIP to the UK, took SAIoneers on a fun ride to various global interactions, places of historical and cultural importance. Sharing below some of their experiences via letters they wrote to us daily. SAI International was constantly connected to them.
Day 1
Dear Parents,
Hurray!
Finally, the much-awaited GIP to the UK begins. We have been looking forward to it for the last 3months. On June 5, 2023, at 1800 hrs, all the students and teachers gathered at Bhubaneswar airport. We received our tickets and sling bags. We checked in and waited for 2hrs. Then, we flew to Kolkata airport in 55mins. We went for immigration and had snacks to eat and headed to board the Etihad flight.
After a 4-hr layover, we flew to Abu Dhabi airport in 4hrs, not considering time zone change. We immigrated then waited 3 hrs at the airport. The shops at the airport were beyond words. We went shopping for chips and souvenirs. After doing the immigration and security check, we took a flight to London for 7-hrs. Very hungry and tired, we went to ZaZa bazaar food court with Prakash Sir. We had our dinner, watched the sunset at 10:30pm.
Warm regards,
Punyajit Mishra, Nikhil Sahu
Day 2
Dear Parents,
We woke up early in the morning and it was surreal looking through our hotel window, it gave a breathtaking view of the Sunrise. We had breakfast and then boarded the bus to Bath. We met our guide who helped us explore the ancient city. He showed us the oldest house in Bath which is Sally Lunn’s and was constructed in 1482. Can you believe it? It’s still functional as a food joint.
Keeping up with the ancient legacy, we then learned about a 350-year-old tree which was humongous. There was a place in the orchard where voices echoed. We were thrilled to try out the echo game. We then headed to Bath Abbey / The Abbey Church of St Peter and St Paul which is the Parish church of the church of England and former Benedictine monastery in Bath. Our next stop was the Empire state building, River Avon, Victoria gallery.
The exploration continued as we headed to a restaurant for lunch. After lunch we went to the Roman Bath which are natural hot springs. It was one of a kind where we had audio tape to guide us with the huge architecture. We bid a goodbye to Bath by shopping at various outlets. Then we came back to Bristol where we met Prakash Sir, our Principal Secondary, who joined us as we set course for Clifton Bridge and Bristol docks. The day ended after we made some interaction with the common people and then danced our hearts out.
Warm Regards,
Deepanshu Prakash, Vaibhav Suman
Day 3
Dear Parents,
We woke up really excited today. It was a day to visit one of our partner schools- Welton Primary School. We dressed in our school uniform, had breakfast and bid adieu to the beautiful city of Bristol. We boarded the coach and set towards the school.
The school was wonderful with roots going back to more than a hundred years. The tiny cherubs were super super excited. We gave a presentation on the culture, food, cuisine, festivals and history of our state-Odisha. The children of Welton Primary School presented a wonderful song then. We presented our very famous - Aashayein song and taught them sway along with the clap of happiness.
We visited their classrooms and played with them in the field. Then we took their leave and headed for lunch. After that we went to the famous Jane Austen Centre. We got an insight into her life. Then came the best part as we actually dressed in the vintage costumes of that era. We Then proceeded towards a 2-hour journey to Gloucester, where we had dinner and checked in. A fun filled day finally came to an end.
Warm Regards,
Shubham Muthuraj, Sai Vaishnavi Patra
Day 4
Dear Parents,
Today we woke up early in the morning and the view from the hotel was breathtaking. We wore our identity- our uniform, had our breakfast and left for Chosen Hill School.
The building was huge, which reminded me of my school. There we interacted with students of Chosen Hill and Churchdown Parton Manor Junior School. We had many group activities with the students of both the schools. We did a lot of brainstorming on global issues like 'Saving our Oceans'. We had a gala time when we had to come up with ideas for the school magazine and poster making.
We had lunch there and interacted with the students who had now become our really got friends. Then we took their leave and headed towards Eastgate Street for some shopping. Dinner followed after that. Another beautiful day comes to an end.
Warm regards,
Rupesh Agarwal, Priyam Misra
Global immersion programs provide a powerful platform for individuals to develop empathy, cultural intelligence, and a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of humanity that exists across the globe.
