From Paris to Colombo – A Journey of Culture, Learning, and Friendship
The French Department of Gateway College recently organised an enriching educational and cultural tour to France, where 23 students and two teachers visited from 13th to 20th September. This marked the third visit by Gateway students, continuing the remarkable exchange between Gateway College, Sri Lanka, and Sainte Marie College, France.
During their week in France, students explored iconic landmarks including the Palace of Versailles, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Opéra Garnier. They also enjoyed the spectacular Aura light show and a scenic cruise along the River Seine. Visits to a medieval town and the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie offered a perfect blend of history and modern innovation, deepening their appreciation of French culture and heritage.
The friendship between the two schools strengthened further when Gateway College hosted the Sainte Marie delegation in October. Six teachers and thirty students were welcomed with traditional attire, warm smiles, and a colourful cultural celebration featuring Sri Lankan and French performances. A touching highlight was when the French students sang a popular Sri Lankan song, joined joyfully by the audience.
Hosted by Gateway families in Colombo and Dehiwala, the visitors experienced Sri Lanka’s hospitality through city tours, temple and kovil visits, and authentic local cuisine. Collaborative activities such as Sinhala letter writing, T-shirt painting, and cricket training added a fun and interactive dimension to the exchange – playing cricket while sipping king coconuts was an unforgettable first for the French students.
The delegation also attended the Gateway College Colombo Awards Day at the BMICH, expressing their delight at being part of such an elegant event. As a gesture of goodwill, they received special T-shirts depicting the Sri Lankan Jungle Fowl and the French Gallic Rooster – symbols of pride and unity.
The Sainte Marie group departed on 25th October, carrying cherished memories of Sri Lanka’s warmth and generosity. Both schools pledged to keep this friendship alive – an enduring bond that celebrates culture, learning, and the joy of human connection across borders.
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