Manav Rachna Educational Institutions Hosts UK Delegates for Immersive Cultural Exchange

Faridabad , 13 March , 2024- Manav Rachna Educational Institutions (MREI) recently welcomed a delegation from Havant and South Downs College (HSDC), UK, as part of the UK Government’s Turing Scheme. The visit, held from February 20 to March 7, 2024, was meticulously organized in collaboration with the UK Elite Sports Group (UKESG) to facilitate a comprehensive sports, media, and cultural exchange experience.

Led by Team Leader Julio alongside Mr. Aaron Butson – Assistant Principal HSDC, and Ms. Bobbie Crown – Educational Visit Coordinator HSDC, 16 students and faculty members from HSDC, including Mr. Lakhbir Singh – COO UKESG, engaged in a myriad of activities meticulously crafted to impart domain-specific knowledge and deepen their understanding of Indian culture. From intense training sessions in football, cricket, and shooting to immersive cultural activities like bonfires and musical evenings, the agenda was packed with enriching experiences.

Upon their arrival in India at Manav Rachna on February 20th, the delegates seamlessly transitioned into a series of immersive activities, including culinary sessions, media workshops, shooting range experiences, creative workshops, bhangra sessions, and sports assessments at Manav Rachna Sports Science Centre. Additionally, they explored local markets, interacted with villagers, and forged enduring bonds with Manav Rachna students.

They also visited Taj Mahal and Akshardham, attended design thinking sessions led by Adobe Experts, and sports journalism workshops with leading Indian journalists, followed by exploration of local villages, trekking in the Aravali range, and engaging in yoga and meditation sessions.

The UK delegates expressed profound appreciation for the warm and welcoming hospitality extended by India, marking their experience as enriching and memorable.

The groundwork for this tour commenced in September 2023, with the UK team conducting a thorough four-day recce of the Manav Rachna campus and engaging in extensive discussions with the MREI team.

Dr Amit Bhalla, VP, MREI said, “Sports has long been woven into the fabric of Manav Rachna, enriching our journey with passion and camaraderie. The visit of UKESG students has not only added a global touch to our cultural tapestry but has also paved the way for diverse experiences through such global student immersion programs.”

Dr. Amit Bhalla championed the vision of promoting international collaborations, while Dr. Hanu Bhardwaj, Director – Career Development, CRCDC, Ms. Ambika Vasudev, Head – Career Advancement, CRCDC and Mr. Agam Talwar – Administrator, Manav Rachna Sports Academy MREI, played pivotal roles in conceptualizing and executing the project.

Everyone at Manav Rachna eagerly anticipates welcoming future delegations from HSDC for more enriching exchanges.