Students from Porto-Vecchio visit Palermo

Students from Porto-Vecchio returned from a trip to Palermo, where they explored the anti-mafia struggle in Sicilian society through an exhibition. They visited the Falcone Borsellino museum, which honors the fight against organized crime.

Museum highlights anti-mafia art

At the museum, students saw street art displayed on the walls, illustrating the extent of the anti-mafia movement in Sicily. These artworks reflect the ongoing struggle against the mafia's influence in the region.

Erasmus program connects schools

The trip to Palermo was made possible by the Erasmus consortium in Porto-Vecchio, which has linked the Jean-Paul-de-Rocca-Serra high school with two local middle schools since 2021. The program has expanded to include partnerships in 13 European countries.

Program reaches many students

Over four years, the Erasmus program has involved 540 participants from Porto-Vecchio, including 428 students and 112 staff members. The program aims to break down barriers and connect students with different European cultures.

Overcoming local challenges

Mélanie Lozano, the Erasmus coordinator, noted that the main challenge is overcoming the island's insularity and the high cost of travel. She said that students often feel Europe is distant from their daily lives.

Students experience cultural diversity

A group of students traveled to Blankenberge, Belgium, where they experienced a melting pot of cultures. Thomas, a student from Porto-Vecchio, noted that cultures can change dramatically even over short distances.

History and language lessons

During their time in Belgium, students visited a Franco-Belgian cemetery where they found graves of Corsican soldiers from World War I. Mai-Ly improved her English by living in a country where the language is widely spoken.

Erasmus promotes cultural exchange

On Monday, students from Porto-Vecchio shared their experiences from the Erasmus program, encouraging others to explore different cultures. Since Brexit, opportunities to practice English in Europe have decreased, except in Ireland.

New partnerships for language learning

To address the need for English practice, Mélanie Lozano has partnered with a bilingual high school in Zagreb, Croatia. This collaboration helps students improve their language skills while experiencing new cultures.

Students embrace new experiences

Lora, Lamisse, and Margot from a middle school in Porto-Vecchio spent time in Spain, where they initially worried about being welcomed by host families. However, their concerns faded as they experienced warm hospitality and a successful cultural exchange.

Erasmus fosters European identity

The Erasmus program has helped students build an European identity through shared experiences. Projects from these exchanges lead to digital content and magazines, highlighting the program's impact on young people in Porto-Vecchio.