Second edition of ‘EU at Your School’ closes with attendance of over 10,000 students

Over 10,000 students aged 13 to 20 from 27 Singapore education institutions met with European Union (EU) representatives in the second edition of the ‘EU at Your School’ project (#EUatYourSchool), where they got insights about the EU and its relations with Singapore. The project, which started on 31 March and will continue through July 2021, builds on the positive feedback of the inaugural edition in 2019.

Ambassadors and diplomats from the EU and its member states based in Singapore visited education institutions across the island to give talks about the EU, touching on topics such as the EU’s history, institutions, and their growing role in the face of the global health crisis. The talks were presented in virtual or hybrid format. The project aims to promote 21st century competencies by developing global awareness and cross-cultural skills amongst students and instilling in them an appreciation of different cultures and languages by introducing them to the rich and diverse cultures of Europe.

Ambassador Plinkert said, “This year’s campaign has been a collective effort that called for a remarkable degree of agility as the COVID-19 situation evolved. I am extremely grateful to the Ministry of Education, Singapore, students, teachers, and principals from all participating schools, and fellow Ambassadors for their unstinting support. While the pandemic has exposed our vulnerabilities, it has also highlighted the many benefits of dialogue and cooperation.”

Finland’s ambassador Antti Vänskä visited Geylang Methodist Secondary School together with intern Taiju Marttila to talk with bring young students about the EU, its relationship with Singapore and ASEAN, and Finland. The students had prepared interesting questions for us and we were very happy with this opportunity to interact with young Singaporeans. As a gift from the school, we received a beautiful artwork made by one of the students.

The ambassador encouraged students to build global connections and friendships, and to even consider a career in diplomacy, if they are interested in international issues. This covid time has been especially difficult for young students, but we encourage them to look forward to a bright future. A big thank you to Geylang Methodist Secondary School for having us, and for the EU delegation for organizing the project! We are looking forward to next year’s edition.