Connect Programme: a transformative link
Deutsche Schule Medellín was born out of solidarity and that spirit is always present. Since 2024, students from Klasse 7, 8 and 9 have been part of the Connect Programme.
Miguel Trujillo, from Klasse 7, was struck by the reality experienced by the children of the Héctor Abad Gómez Educational Institution in Niquitao. Miguel recalls that while playing in the playground, he noticed some broken glass and that some children were even leaving the school without anyone seeing them. "It makes us realize that we are privileged and that there are many people we can help," he says.
This is precisely one of the objectives of the Connect Programme, which is part of the DSM Solidarity programme. "It is important that there is a connection, that the students of the school can get to know other realities," says Claudia López, CAS (Creativity, Activity and Service) coordinator. Thus, in addition to the work done by students in Klasse 11 and 12, as part of the International Baccalaureate, in 2024 Connect began with young students from Klasse 7, 8 and 9.
Leticia Jaramillo, a member of the Solidarity Committee, explains that so far, they have seen a real impact. "The visits we make consist of playful moments and sharing a lunch box with students from Héctor Abad, but beyond that, links and connections are created, and it becomes clear that we don't all live in the same way.
Claudia López also explains that this is a form of leadership development: "Being in contact with other realities is fundamental for the leaders of the future" and adds that "this activity has shown us that our students are very caring". This is due to a great deal of work that has been done with the Solidarity Committee and with the families of the school, as Leticia Jaramillo assures us. Through initiatives such as the integration of students of different ages in community service activities, Connect has demonstrated its ability to cultivate empathy.
For Miguel, the programme has not only been an opportunity to share with other children and learn about their realities, but also, a call to action. His desire to do more for those less fortunate has made him want to take concrete actions, such as organising collections to improve the safety of vulnerable children.
Connect is more than an educational programme, it is a testament to the transformative power of solidarity and empathy. As students like Miguel continue to be inspired and motivated by this experience, it is clear that the legacy of this programme will live on to positively impact society through such a school experience.
In Context: The Solidarity Programme
From aiding university scholarships to creating marching bands, the DSM Solidarity programme has made a mark on the school, outside of the school, in the lives of the students and communities it has impacted. "Our vision of raising awareness and fostering solidarity has come to fruition, inspiring generations of young people to make a difference in their communities," says Leticia Jaramillo.