Round Square Tour to India Broadens Horizons for Students
From 28 August to 5 September, Grade 9 students from the Boys’ and Girls’ College, , accompanied Dr Gladys Ayaya and Mrs Jenni-Lee Lombard from the Girls' College on a Round Square tour to India.
The tour replaced a Round Square conference that our school had originally planned to attend in March. However, the conference participation was cancelled due to the conflict in the Middle East, as our flights had been scheduled to travel via Qatar. This time, the group travelled with Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa to Delhi.
The week-long tour included a two-day visit to The British School, New Delhi, sightseeing at various tourist attractions, and shopping excursions. The trip was organised with the assistance of Sprouts Edu Tours, whose guide, Manish, did an excellent job leading the group through New Delhi, Old Delhi, and Agra. Each evening, students participated in reflection sessions, discussing their new experiences and recording their thoughts in their journals. The following report is a summary of their experiences, captured through their own reflections.
India proved to be very different from what many students had expected. Several arrived with preconceived ideas of a dirty and underdeveloped country, but as they travelled from the airport through New Delhi, they were surprised by the lush greenery, modern infrastructure, impressive buildings, and rich history. Standing at India Gate and admiring the city's monuments and architecture challenged many of their assumptions. The museums and artefacts at the Red Fort revealed a majestic history and cultural heritage far beyond what they had imagined. The trip broadened their understanding of the world and encouraged significant personal growth.
Visits to New Delhi and Old Delhi left students with strong and often contrasting impressions. They reflected on the contrast between modern development and ancient history, the constant movement and energy of the city, bustling street vendors, honking traffic, cows on the roads, and the vibrant atmosphere. Exploring landmarks such as the Red Fort, spice markets, mosques, Sikh temples, and travelling by rickshaw and tuk-tuk provided a deeper understanding of Indian culture, religion, and daily life. Many appreciated the opportunity to observe how local people lived and to experience places that felt authentic and steeped in history. Students also learnt valuable lessons in local markets about the art of bargaining and how to distinguish between branded products and counterfeit goods.
The visit to The British School was a highlight for all six students. They consistently described the staff and students as welcoming, inclusive, friendly, and kind. They enjoyed participating in lessons that had been planned with South Africa in mind, as well as sports and drama activities, and meeting people from a wide range of nationalities. The experience provided valuable insight into a different educational system and showcased inquiry-based learning at its best, allowing for meaningful cultural exchange. Many students formed new friendships and felt as though they were being treated like family, despite having only just met.
Students were also impressed by landmarks such as the Presidential House, commenting on the attention to detail, artwork, and craftsmanship. They were even shown the room where President Putin met with his Indian counterpart. Travelling through rural areas on the journey to Agra offered a more relaxed perspective on life outside the major cities and helped students appreciate the country's diversity.
The visit to the Taj Mahal was repeatedly described as unforgettable, breathtaking, magnificent, and beyond expectations. Students were amazed by the intricate carvings, marble work, architecture, and engravings. Many reflected on the story behind its construction, its religious significance, and its place in Indian society. The monument inspired thoughts about beauty, history, craftsmanship, and the people who created it. For several students, seeing one of the Seven Wonders of the World was a truly significant moment and a highlight they felt they would never forget.
Across the week, students highlighted themes of personal growth, cultural learning, friendship, curiosity, and appreciation for diversity. They returned home with a deeper understanding of India, greater respect for its people and history, and lasting memories of experiences that challenged assumptions and broadened their perspectives.
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