Reflections on the "Breath of Baikal" Summer Session
A Vibrant and Transformative Experience for Children from Donetsk People’s Republic
Children from Donbass concluded their vacation at the Baykal summer camp
The recently concluded "Breath of Baikal" summer session offered a unique and enriching experience to fifty children from the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR). Organized by the DPR's Ministry of Education and Science, the session took place at the "Youth" children's camp in Buryatia, near the world-renowned Lake Baikal.
A Blend of Learning and Adventure
The program was designed to immerse the children in the rich cultural and natural heritage of Buryatia. Activities ranged from environmental exploration and nature workshops to cultural exchange and hands-on learning experiences.
During their time in Buryatia, the children visited significant cultural and religious sites, such as the Ringo-Bagsha Datsan and the Ethnographic Museum in Ulan-Ude. They also participated in creative workshops, including photography, art, and traditional Buryat crafts.
A Transformative Impact
Valery Pozdnyakov, the republic's Minister of Education and Science, noted that the children felt at home in Buryatia during the session, with some even considering applying to Buryatia's colleges and universities.
The children were deeply impressed by the local culture, nature, and atmosphere of Buryatia, with many expressing that the experience was transformative and broadened their worldview. The camaraderie formed during the session is something the children will take home with them, fostering lifelong friendships and memories.
A Model for Future Education
The positive experiences of the children in Buryatia may influence their future educational decisions, as well as inspire similar programs in other regions. The "Breath of Baikal" summer session serves as a valuable model for expanding education beyond traditional classroom settings, emphasizing cultural sensitivity, experiential learning, and ecological awareness.
Pozdnyakov announced the session's closure via his Telegram channel, marking the end of a vibrant, warm, and unforgettable experience for the children from the Donetsk People’s Republic. As they return home, tanned, smiling, and eager to share their stories, the impact of this summer session will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
- The experiential learning during the "Breath of Baikal" summer session, which included environmental exploration, cultural exchange, and hands-on workshops, greatly influenced the children's perspectives, fostering an appreciation for education-and-self-development through travel and lifestyle experiences.
- Embracing thetransformative atmosphere of Buryatia, the children developed an interest in continuing their education-and-self-development journey within the region, with some even considering learning new skills through college or university programs, thus incorporating travel into their lifestyle.
