International Partner Stories

Our international partners accomplish amazing things with volunteers. Read their stories.

Volunteer assistance is critical to enabling our international partners to create change in their communities. Many of them have shared the work they were able to accomplish with the help of international volunteers. Read their stories below.

Teachers’ Day at DEPDC/GMS, Mae Sai print story

September 17, 2012

DEPDC/GMS, Thailand

Thursday 14th June was a very exciting day at DEPDC/GMS Mae Sai as everyone celebrated Teachers’ Day. The students had spent days preparing for the special day by learning songs, dances, and preparing flower arrangements.

Teachers’ day is an opportunity for students to show appreciation, gratitude and respect to their teachers. To have had that one great teacher or many great teachers in your childhood is often something we reminisce about as adults. An inspiring, caring, and skilled teacher is fondly remembered by their students.

The morning began with a traditional dance performance, using fans, by five students wearing traditional Tai Yai dress. It was clear that a great deal of hard work and practice had gone into the performance. The students then sang songs they had learned and then proceeded to “wai” their teachers, who were seated in front of them.

DEPDC/GMS founder and director, Sompop Jantraka, then said a few words about education and the work of the teachers at DEPDC/GMS. The students then presented bouquets of flowers to each teacher. Each student had assembled a small bouquet to present to their teachers, and each class had prepared a larger arrangement for each teacher. The flower arrangements were a feast for the eyes, as they were made up of vibrantly coloured flowers and were artistically arranged. It was a touching sight to see teacher and student exchange hugs and words of admiration and encouragement.

After the presentation of the bouquets, awards were then given to students who had participated in drawing and short story competitions. These competitions gave students the opportunity to exhibit their art and writing skills.

When all the awards were given out the morning’s events came to an end and it was time for lunch. All the children enjoyed a tasty meal after an enjoyable morning of celebration.