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On 16.02.24, the children from the ºÚÁÏÉç kindergarten and elementary school came together to celebrate a vibrant carnival party. The children appeared in many creative costumes and the atmosphere was great. There was a lot of dancing and laughing and the students and teachers enjoyed the cheerful atmosphere to the fullest. After the children had let off steam on the dance floor, there was a typical German carnival treat ‘Krapfen’, a kind of doughnut filled with jam. The carnival party was once again a huge success this year and the ºÚÁÏÉç children went home with smiling faces.

The spirit of joy and camaraderie filled the air as the kindergarten students of the German Embassy School recently gathered for a thrilling Sports Festival. The soccer field buzzed with excitement as children, divided into groups, eagerly embarked on a morning filled with delightful activities and games. From testing their balance by walking on benches to zooming through tunnels and scoring goals, there was no shortage of excitement. Each corner of the school grounds was alive with laughter and cheers as the young participants immersed themselves in various challenges. While some raced with fervor in thrilling competitions, others showcased their agility and strength in activities like long jumps. The atmosphere reverberated with cheers and encouragement as the children pushed themselves to new limits, cheered on by their peers and teachers alike. From the exhilarating race to fill a cup with water and dash back to the finish line, to the infectious energy of musical accompaniment, every moment was filled with joy and enthusiasm. As the morning unfolded, it became evident that the Sports Festival was not just about physical activities; it was a celebration of teamwork, perseverance, and the sheer joy of being together. Regardless of the outcome of the games, every child emerged as a winner, their faces beaming with pride and satisfaction.

At the beginning of the second semester on January 29th, the traditional hiking day for the secondary school took place. This year’s destination was Gulele Botanical Garden. The students had to complete a circuit with various tasks. For example, they had to build a tower, identify plants, catch a sheep and much more.  It was an exciting day and a nice change from the normal school routine, which teachers and students really enjoyed.

The German Embassy School in Addis Ababa hosted a special screening of the classic film “The Murderers Are Among Us” in the school gymnasium. This event provided an invaluable opportunity for our students to engage with an important piece of German cinematic history and to reflect on the lessons it imparts. For many of our students, this was their first encounter with this 1946 film directed by Wolfgang Staudte. Set in post-World War II Berlin, the movie delves into the aftermath of the war and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals attempting to rebuild their lives amidst the ruins of their country. Through the compelling narrative, viewers witness the struggles of the characters, particularly Susanne Wallner, a concentration camp survivor, and Dr. Hans Mertens, a former Wehrmacht officer haunted by his past actions. The screening served as more than just a cinematic experience; it was a catalyst for meaningful discussions about history, morality, and the consequences of war. In the post-screening reflections, students shared their thoughts on the themes of guilt, forgiveness, and reconciliation depicted in the film. Many expressed admiration for Susanne’s resilience and courage, while others grappled with the complexities of Mertens’ character and his quest for redemption. One of the most powerful aspects of watching “The Murderers Are Among Us” together was the opportunity it provided for our community to come together and engage in dialogue. As we navigated through the emotional journey portrayed on screen, students and faculty alike were able to exchange perspectives, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of this pivotal period in history. Events like these underscore the importance of incorporating cultural and historical experiences into our curriculum. By exposing our students to diverse narratives and challenging them to critically analyze complex issues, we empower them to become informed global citizens capable of navigating the complexities of the world around them. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to host this screening and look forward to continuing to provide enriching experiences that inspire learning and growth.