International Student Encounter in the Netherlands – Let’s Build Bridges. 

From September 25 to October 1, 2024, young people from Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, and Germany met for the fourth time within the framework of ERASMUS+. This time, the gathering took place in the Netherlands. Hosted in Noordwijk, the participants experienced impressive program highlights, including visits to The Hague and Amsterdam.  (Photo: Carlo Lejeune) 

At the "Englandvaarders" Museum in Noordwijk, the students learned about the history of the "Engelandvaarders," brave women and men who fled across the North Sea to England during the German occupation to fight against the German occupiers. (Photo: Carlo Lejeune)

In The Hague, they gained insight into the workings of the International Criminal Court of Justice. They had the brief opportunity to observe a trial against a suspected war criminal behind thick bulletproof glass, which was extremely interesting. The project work at the "Oranje Hotel", a prison where members of the Dutch resistance were detained under difficult conditions during the German occupation, as well as the visit to the Peace Palace with its exhibition on the development of the peace movement, were very enlightening.  (Photo: Carlo Lejeune)

Of course, everyone was looking forward to the trips to Amsterdam. A leisurely boat ride through the canals and exploring the city centre on foot were part of the program. The project work and the guided tour of the Anne Frank House, a place filled with history and emotion, were among the highlights of our project trip. (Photo: Students from Belgium)

Many new friendships were formed, and everyone learned how diverse Europe can be. A varied program was on the agenda. Through this project, not only were people brought together, but lasting impressions were also left on the participants. They learned and discussed together, and even danced. In addition to the great program and excursions, the students worked on tasks together and exchanged their impressions of the visited places and various topics. (Photos: Regina Juretzko) 

The theme of building bridges was taken literally at this student meeting. To get to know each other and start working together, the students built bridges out of wood in groups. After completion, the bridges had to be named and be sturdy. (Photos: Carlo Lejeune)