Bridging Cultures: Erasmus+ School Education Project in Rzeszów, Poland

The power of education and cultural exchange was on full display in Rzeszów, Poland, as a group of students and teachers from Nagykanizsai SZC Cserháti Sándor Technikum és Kollégium embarked on a two-week journey of discovery and friendship. This school exchange, made possible by the School Education sector of the Erasmus+ program, marked a significant milestone for INPRO, as it was the first initiative of its kind in the organization’s history.

From the moment the Hungarian guests arrived in Rzeszów, they were greeted with warm hospitality from INPRO volunteers. Our guests had the opportunity to visit three different schools in Rzeszów – Zespół Szkół nr 2, VI Liceum, and III Liceum Ogólnokształcące – where they observed and participated in classes and activities, and interacted with local students and teachers.

But this exchange was more than just a chance to learn about the Polish education system – it was also an opportunity to explore and appreciate the rich culture and traditions of the host country. The Hungarian guests had the chance to visit Rzeszowskie Piwnice, a famous historical site, and the Castle in Lancut, an impressive monument of Polish architecture. They also took part in the Open Cafe event in Urban Lab, where they had the chance to meet and socialize with other young people from the area.

Of course, the exchange was not a one-sided affair. The Polish students and teachers also learned a great deal from their Hungarian partners. They had the opportunity to interact with students, learn about their perspectives and experiences, and gain insights into the similarities and differences between the two cultures. These interactions and experiences were invaluable in fostering intercultural understanding and breaking down stereotypes and prejudices.

The exchange was not just about the students – the teachers also played a critical role in its success. The teachers from both countries worked together on the engaging programs, ensuring that the students had the best possible experience. Their dedication and hard work were instrumental in making the exchange a success, and their efforts did not go unnoticed. We would like to particularly thank Ms Karolina Duży from Zespół Szkół nr 2 w Rzeszowie, Ms Anna Morawiec-Susło from VI Liceum KontoOficjalne, Ms Maria Horodecka from III Liceum Ogólnokształcące w Rzeszowie, and Zoltán Faludi and Edit Kálovicsné Korsós from Nagykanizsai SZC Cserháti Sándor Technikum és Kollégium for their invaluable help and support in organizing the school exchange. Without their dedication and contribution, this initiative would not have been possible to implement.

The School Education project was a great success, not only in terms of the educational experiences acquired by the pupils but also in terms of the cultural exchange and personal growth experienced by all involved. Thanks to the dedication and hospitality of the schools and the city of Rzeszow, the pupils were able to gain new skills, make new friends, and broaden their horizons. The participants were grateful for being given this opportunity and expressed their desire to take part again in Erasmus+ programs in the future.

The program was financed by Erasmus+.