Gambiaj.com – (BIJILO, The Gambia) – The junior school campus of SBEC International School buzzed with excitement on Saturday as it hosted its annual Cultural Day celebration. The event showcased the institution’s rich cultural heritage and diversity, bringing together students, parents, and community members in a vibrant display of unity and learning.

Draped in colorful traditional attire, students enthusiastically participated in cultural exhibits and performances, offering a window into the customs and traditions of various cultures.

A range of foods and beverages representing diversity and cultures from around the world were served. Throughout the various groups’ performances, communities also featured traditional music and dances, cultural masquerades, and ethnic ceremonies. A sense of joy and solidarity was fostered by the vivid colors, elaborate costumes, and upbeat music. By learning about various traditions and customs, attendees were able to develop an appreciation for and knowledge of cultural diversity.

The event underscored the importance of embracing and respecting cultural diversity, a value the school administration strives to instill through such initiatives.

“This celebration is more than just showcasing customs and costumes,” said Mamadou Coly, Head of SBEC International High School. “It’s about fostering pride and understanding. The excitement on the children’s faces reflects their joy in learning about their heritage and appreciating the cultures of others.”

SBEC International School, home to students from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds across all continents, leverages its global community to promote understanding.

The event provided Gambian children with an opportunity to explore the diverse traditions within their nation while learning about global cultures, from Chinese and Indian to European and American.

“For many Gambian children, this is a chance to reconnect with the richness of their country’s cultural mosaic, which they often overlook,” Mr. Coly noted. “Through this program, they not only learn about other traditions but also discover the value of their own, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diversity around them.”

The event also served as a platform for parents to reconnect with their heritage and pass down traditions to their children. Families came together in a heartwarming display of unity, celebrating both their unique cultural roots and shared community values.

SBEC’s Cultural Day has become an annual highlight, demonstrating how education can transcend the classroom to build bridges of understanding and respect in a diverse world. Through this initiative, the school not only educates children but also cultivates a sense of pride and belonging, leaving an indelible mark on all who participate.