Every year, for three transformative weeks, a group of students from Kolleg St. Blasien in Germany travels to Zambia to participate in an international exchange with students of the Empowerment Program at Kasisi Agricultural Training Center (KATC). This year 7 pupils under the guidance of Mr. Stefan Seeherr came to Kasisi. This grassroots initiative is more than just a school trip—it’s an experience of cultural immersion, hands-on learning in organic agriculture, and a powerful step toward global solidarity.
Learning Through Encounter
This year 7 pupils under the guidance of Mr. Stefan Seeherr came to Kasisi. At KATC, the German students actively engaged in daily farm work, gaining first-hand experience in sustainable and organic farming practices. They worked side by side with Zambian students, learning not only how to cultivate the land, but also how community, resilience, and joy can thrive even in the face of challenges.
In return, 3 Zambian students will start for a three-month attachment in Germany on the 16th May. These students are hosted on organic farms where they deepen their technical skills, learn about farming systems in Europe, and experience a different culture and pace of life.
A Two-Way Exchange of Perspectives
The exchange is not only about agriculture—it’s about broadening horizons, building friendships, and forming meaningful connections that stretch beyond local contexts. The experience helps participants from both countries reflect on their own realities and values.
A recent highlight of the program was a meeting with Anne Wagner-Mitchell, the German Ambassador to Zambia. She warmly commended the initiative, emphasizing that “such grassroots exchanges are what truly strengthen the Zambian-German relationship. They bring our people together in ways that official channels never can.”
Memorable Moments
The program wasn’t without its unforgettable adventures. Students travel to Livingstone, where they witness the Lunar Rainbow over the Victoria Falls—an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon that few get to experience. They also went on safari, exploring Zambia’s rich wildlife and landscapes.
At KATC, the German students were introduced to the realities of load-shedding, gaining a deeper appreciation for daily life in Zambia. One touching moment was when each German student received a Zambian name from their local peers—an act of friendship that symbolized their growing bond and shared journey.
The students also collaborated in the plastic recycling workshop, developing the first prototypes of vessels made from used plastics—a small but meaningful step in the fight against environmental degradation. Together, they reflected on their shared responsibility to care for “our common home, Mother Earth.”
Reflections and Looking Ahead
Zambian graduates who previously visited Germany spoke fondly of their experiences, praising the organization, punctuality, and work culture they observed. Meanwhile, German students expressed admiration for the enthusiasm, joy, and deep sense of community they encountered in Zambia.
This exchange continues to plant seeds of mutual understanding, friendship, and global responsibility—nurturing young people who are ready to shape a more connected and compassionate world.
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