It was a lively bunch of young and hopeful children that were welcomed to the Norwegian Consul General’s residence to learn more about Norway. As the children filled the residence with anticipation, they were introduced to a wide range of topics concerning Norway and the Norwegian way of life. With information about the Norwegian education system, the Norwegian Consulate General’s work in Southern China and video clips showing everything from polar bears to the opera house in Oslo, the children were fascinated by the peculiarities of the foreign country.
Foshan Small Journalist Association is an extra-curricular activity for young pupils. Their meeting with the Norwegian Consulate General was the first time they were invited to the residence of a consul general. After the presentation, the children, true to their red caps reading “small journalist” raised several challenging questions for Consul Håkon Smedsvig to answer. With questions ranging from Norway’s system of prevention against natural disasters and the midnight sun’s influence on people’s daily life, it was obvious the journalists had done their research.
The visit gave the consulate an opportunity to interact with a group not usually socialized with, and hopefully the children left with a deeper impression and understanding of Norway.