REAL-LIFE EXPERIENCE TRIP DURING SUMMER BREAK

Young students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, rarely have the opportunity to witness the handcrafting process firsthand. Therefore, the students from Thang Long School’s English and Computer classes had a truly exciting experience at the Vocational Education Centre for the Disabled and Orphans in Hóc Môn District last month.

During the visit, 85 students were divided into 5 groups to experience various vocations taught to disabled/orphaned individuals at the centre. In the industrial sewing class, students were guided in fabric measurement, cutting, and basic clothing construction. They observed trainees sewing diligently to complete items. The oil painting class was supervised by a highly experienced teacher, who shared intricate details about oil in art, topic and layout selection, simple drafts, and colour mixing.

Outside, agricultural lessons took place in a small garden. Students learnt about orchid incubation, mushroom planting and care techniques, and even participated in clearing the bushes around the centre. The students were particularly enthusiastic about the clay flower making class, where they meticulously kneaded clay and formed each flower petal to achieve a lifelike appearance. They also enjoyed the jewellery-making class, where they could use professional equipment under the guidance of trainees to create rings.

After lunch, the Thăng Long students and the centre’s trainees engaged in a sharing session with the theme “Recognising Our Self-Worth.” The aim was to convey the message that each person possesses unique values, strengths, and weaknesses. It is essential to understand how we can leverage our advantages and overcome difficulties. The gathering garnered significant attention from attendees, as many raised their hands and eagerly shared their opinions on the topic.

Before leaving, the students purchased items sold at the centre as mementos of the trip, such as hand fans, clay flower bouquets, and fabric bags, among other things. The social activities Thang Long students serve the purpose of educating them about compassion and the spirit of giving and receiving. These activities help the students understand and develop a sense of assistance towards those who are facing more challenging circumstances than their own.

Thanh Phương expressed, “I took the chance to converse with elder trainees and discovered that every individual has their own story, but the flame of tireless effort always burns inside them. Regardless of the challenges they face, they remain optimistic and keep smiling. I have learnt a lot about sharing and empathy from this experience.”