On May 9, 2025, we celebrated Europe Day at the International Gymnasium Meerane: a day that reminds us that Europe is more than just a continent: it is a promise of peace, freedom and cooperation. And it reminds us how closely our present is linked to the history of European integration - from the Schuman Plan of May 9, 1950, to the current challenges of the EU.
Under the motto "United in diversity", our fifth graders took part in a lively and creative project morning. Together, they explored European values in art, music, sport, history, languages and science. In station work, interactive games, creative group activities and workshops, central themes of the EU and Europe were brought to life for our sixth to ninth graders. From human rights and democracy to tolerance and cultural diversity, it was impressive to see how our pupils were creative, argued, knew how to express themselves and defended their opinions without offending others.
The day was also used in higher grades to reflect more deeply on the European idea: Year 10 pupils, for example, had the opportunity to talk to a diplomat from the Federal Foreign Office about the "Diplomacy goes to school" project. Among other things, they discussed what peace actually means today and reflected on the importance of security, cohesion and responsibility in a democratic society with a view to the war in Ukraine.
The eleventh grade students were also involved in the dialog. They had the opportunity to speak directly with politicians. Matthias Ecke, Member of the European Parliament, and Holger Quellmalz, Mayor of Oberwiera, were on hand to answer questions and reaffirm the idea of Europe combined with mutual respect and the desire for peaceful coexistence.
Once again, the day showed us that Europe/the EU is a network that is resilient, adaptive and open. And that is exactly what we want to be as a school.
Marcel Fehre - Deputy Headmaster
