Over 500 enthusiastic primary school pupils from across Warwick District came together on Tuesday, 17th June, to celebrate the International Day of the African Child in a joyful and educational event that highlighted cultural diversity and global friendship.
The annual event, hosted this year by St Patrick’s RC Primary School, was organised through the longstanding One World Link (OWL) initiative, which connects 15 local schools with partner schools in Bo District, Sierra Leone. The children paraded around the sports field with banners displaying their school links and enjoyed a full day of African-themed workshops, including dancing, drumming, art, singing, storytelling, sport, and craft-making – all designed to foster understanding and appreciation of African culture.
In a heartwarming moment during the day, contact was briefly made with Bo, where our linked schools were also marking the occasion with a colourful town parade, proudly carrying banners with campaign messages and artwork. The real-time connection brought the shared celebration to life, reinforcing the spirit of global friendship.
Mayor of Royal Leamington Spa Cllr Ruggy Singh and Cllr Naveen Tangri, Chair of Warwick District Council, were warmly welcomed in the afternoon after touring the workshops. Both praised the energy, creativity, and global awareness demonstrated by the pupils, and commended OWL for its tireless work in building bridges between communities. “Seeing young people immersed in such joyful and meaningful activities is a real testament to the values of peace, friendship and understanding that One World Link has championed for decades,” said Mayor Singh.
The day concluded with a powerful presentation from the children, who delivered campaign messages as part of the Send My Friend to School initiative, calling on world leaders to “Invest in Education.” A representative from local MP Matt Western’s office was present to receive the messages and listen to the children’s hopes for equal access to education worldwide.
One World Link is especially grateful to Leamington Town Council for its generous community grant funding, which helped make this vibrant day of learning and connection possible.
For over 40 years, OWL has nurtured strong partnerships between schools and communities in Warwick District and Bo, Sierra Leone. The Day of the African Child remains a cornerstone of this connection, inspiring young people to become informed, compassionate global citizens.
For more information on One World Link and its school partnerships, visit: oneworldlink.org.uk