11/7/2007 - Gujarat Goes Global

The AFS Ahmedabad Chapter launched the AFS Intercultural Programs in Gujarat, with the esteemed presence of Shri R. K. Pathak, IAS, Chairman – Gujarat State Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board, on the Tuesday, 10th July, 2007.

The distinguished personalities like Mr. David Crespo, the Country Development Director, AFS India, Mr. Raffaele from AFS Italy, Mr. Sandeep Seth, AFS India Board member and AFS Gujarat Zonal Co-ordinator Ms. Abida Desai were present for the inaugural meet with the principals of the schools in Ahmedabad, Gujarat to commemorate AFS Ahmedabad Chapter.

The theme of Gujarat Goes Global became a great hit, along with the event being a success, with the presence of the Principals, trustees, Board members of schools, teachers and several students of different schools of Ahmedabad.

The program started off with a prayer, followed by the lighting of lamp. The President of AFS Ahmedabad Chapter – Ms. Susan Thomas gave a welcome speech, followed by the presentations of Mr. David Crespo who gave a presentation on AFS Intercultural Programs and Mr. Raffele who gave a presentation on AFS Intercultural Programs Italy. Several returnees were given a chance to talk about their achievements and some parents about their experience. Then, came the most awaited time when the IAS, Shri R.K Pathak, gave an incredible speech supporting the AFS program and asking people to join AFS. Mr. Kashyap Thakrar, Vice-President AFS Ahmedabad Chapter gave the vote of thanks and the program ended with the National Anthem followed by the Hi-Tea.

This program was very nicely presented by Ms. Pervin Watchmaker. This meet wouldn’t have been possible without Mrs. Renu Seth. She did a fabulous job, worked day and night behind it. She was on her toes and phone all the time. Also, Mrs. Susan Thomas helped her out with almost everything, and was the main back-bone for this huge meet. Obviously, it won’t have been possible without all the volunteer’s help and support. The event was also covered by Media.

AFS Intercultural Programme is now giving Gujarat an incredible opportunity to exhibit our illustrious quality of extending our warmth and hospitality to all our guests. We welcome one and all to contribute towards this noble cause. So let us strive towards being the hope and change that AFS Intercultural Programmes wants to perceive in today’s distributed world.

Nirali Machhar,
Returnee 05-06,
Ahmedabad
11 July 2007