On April 29, 20 elementary students from Chengdu, along with their student companions from host families, and their parents, joined more than 60 guests at an Open House event hosted by the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Canada. This student exchange marks another milestone in the OCDSB’s international partnership with Chengdu Chenghua Municipal Education Bureau that began in 2016.

Over the past three weeks, Chengdu students were warmly welcomed into classrooms across six OCDSB elementary schools, where they engaged in daily learning with their Canadian peers. The exchange experience was further enriched by the generosity of host families and the active support of our school staff.

To enhance cultural understanding and provide hands-on experiences, OCENET coordinated several special activities, including a pottery workshop at Jack Donohue Public School, where students created their own maple-leaf-shaped dishes—a uniquely Canadian souvenir to take home. At AY Jackson Secondary School, they joined local students for a cooking lesson and cooperative activities, which gave them a glimpse into life at a Canadian secondary school, further deepening their understanding of the Canadian educational environment.

The Open House at the Chinese Embassy offered a meaningful opportunity for students and educators to showcase their talents, taste Chinese cuisine, share their insights and experiences, and engage in lively interactions.

The Chengdu-Ottawa partnership continues to offer impactful learning opportunities for students and educators alike, and this latest exchange reflects the shared commitment to fostering global awareness, friendship, and understanding through education.