On 22 January 2024, the Salesian centre in Pamplona welcomed 9 students and 2 teachers from the graphics department of the Don Bosco centre in Marseilles. The exchange then continued until 3 February, and was only the first stage of the international collaboration project, as it will then be completed in April, when the students involved in the Pamplona Salesian initiative will have the opportunity to visit the French centre.
The work, in particular, consists of 3D printing games and play material for small cancer patients, in an initiative that not only aims to enrich the academic experience of students, but if anything, in the first place, to make a significant contribution to the well-being of children struggling with the disease.
In addition to the Collaborative Learning and Community Service project, during their stay in Navarre French students were able to fully immerse themselves in the culture of the region, participating in various training activities and being welcomed and hosted by local families.
On the part of the young participants in the project, there was great appreciation for this collaboration proposal. "Our challenge was clear from the outset, and was to create educational and recreational material for a good cause. This motivated us a lot and I have to say that we did not waste any time at all. Indeed, we were pleased to see how the regional media were also interested in our initiative" said Guadalupe, one of the girls involved.
The presentation of "Printing Smiles" was attended by representatives of the Government of Navarre, the Association for the Support of Children with Tumour in Navarre (ADANO, in Spanish), and the oncological-pediatric department of the Navarre Hospital Complex.
In a joint effort, the Salesian institute in Pamplona sought the collaboration of the ADANO association to raise students' awareness of the importance of this solidarity project. And the participation of students in the project will not only promote the development of their technical skills, but will also strengthen the values of empathy and service to the community.
This exchange is not only about sharing knowledge, but also building bridges between cultures and making a positive contribution to society. The Salesians in Pamplona and the participants in the project at the Don Bosco Centre in Marseilles are experiencing this international exchange enthusiastically, as a moment that will create a meaningful educational experience for all participants.
