Embracing Diversity: How we nurture cultural understanding at OWIS Riyadh!

OWIS Riyadh teacher with primary school students
Understanding and celebrating diversity is what makes us a socially responsible person. For this, schools play a vital role in shaping young minds and cultivating a culture of acceptance, respect, and empathy. By instilling the values of cultural understanding schools empower students to become compassionate global citizens. As an American international school in Riyadh, we promote multiculturalism among students from a tender age. Let’s explore more through this blog.   Why Diversity understanding matters
  • Building empathy: Learning about different cultures and backgrounds allows students to go through the life path of others, cultivating empathy and compassion.
  • Enhancing social skills: Interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds helps students develop strong communication and social skills, promoting teamwork and collaboration.
  • Preparing for a globalized world: In an increasingly interconnected world, cultural understanding is essential for navigating cross-cultural interactions and international collaborations.
  How to promote diversity understanding among students?
  • Cultural exchange programs: Organizing cultural exchange programs, where students from different backgrounds interact and share their customs and traditions, can be highly enriching.
  • Language learning: Encouraging students to learn different languages opens doors to other cultures and enhances cross-cultural communication.
  • Community Involvement: Engaging with local community groups and organizations representing diverse cultures can create meaningful learning opportunities for students.
    OWIS Riyadh’s commitment to diversity understanding With a student body of more than 30 nationalities, we believe that diversity is a strength that enriches our community. To nurture cultural understanding, we organize a series of cultural awareness events, concerts, and celebrations throughout the academic year.
  • Inclusive curriculum: We incorporate diverse perspectives, histories, and experiences in our curriculum. This includes literature, history, and cultural studies from around the world.
  • Cultural awareness events: Our school hosts cultural awareness events where students and teachers from diverse backgrounds share their traditions, stories and experiences. This provides a platform for open discussions and creates a sense of unity among students.
  • Equal opportunities for all: Regardless of background, abilities, or interests, every student at OWIS Riyadh is given equal opportunities to excel and flourish. We believe that diversity in talents and aspirations contributes to a harmonious and thriving school community.
  • Understanding each student: Our educators get into meaningful conversation with each child to understand their cultural background, hobbies, learning preferences, and what sets them apart. Demonstrating sincere curiosity in learning about each student and their culture will foster trust and create a strong connection, making them feel truly valued.
    By fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated and embraced, we at OWIS Riyadh prepare our students (from kindergarten to primary school) to be compassionate and open-minded global citizens. Promoting diversity understanding in schools is a shared responsibility. By providing opportunities for students to engage with different cultures, we equip them with the tools to build a more inclusive and harmonious world.  
Lina Hallab
School Counselor | + posts

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