Every year in September, millions of girls and boys start school, full of thirst for new knowledge and eager for new friendships.
The first day of school may seem like an ordinary event, but the way it is celebrated and perceived is different around the world. From formal speeches to warm celebrations, let’s take a look at what customs and traditions are observed in different countries.
In Germany, when children start primary school, parents do everything possible to make this moment special and unforgettable. For this purpose, they prepare the so-called in German “school cone”also known as “sugar cone” to the east — a large cardboard or plastic funnel full of pleasant surprises.
At the start of the new school year, parents give children these cones filled with sweets, toys and various school supplies. This is a way to make going back to school more fun and motivating for them.
Regarding the ceremony, after the principal gives the welcome speech, the older students present a specially prepared show including songs and poems, similar to the one in Bulgaria.
In France, the beginning of the school year is often seen as a day like any other and not given much attention. Whether this day will be celebrated in a special way depends on the region and local initiatives. Some schools organize lunch with the teachers and in September and October there are fun activities to bring the students together, except on Wednesday, which is a non-school day.
On the occasion of the beginning of the first semester, universities organize special camps or evenings of integration for new students, including dances, music, many games among them and measuring with paint, cream and others.
Japan
In the Land of the Rising Sun, the new school year begins in April, just as the cherry trees bloom and people gather to enjoy their beauty – a tradition called „“hanami”or “looking at flowers”. They are said to have chosen this beautiful period to coincide with the opening of all schools and universities, as it symbolizes hope and prosperity.
The first day of school in Japan begins with a ceremony filled with solemnity and respect. The students proudly put on their uniform and exchange bows with the teachers and the principal.
In addition to the uniforms, the children also wear their first „randoseru“– a hard leather bag typical of Japanese students. Traditionally red for girls and black for boys, today it can be found in a variety of colors in stores.
In China, the beginning of the school year is always celebrated on September 1, as in many other Western European countries, such as France, Luxembourg and Belgium. The difference is that even if the date falls on a weekend, school starts on the same day, without a Monday postponement.
The ceremony follows a strict ritual. It begins with the raising of the national flag, after which students and teachers sing the national anthem. The following are the speeches of the teachers who inspire and motivate the students for the upcoming school year. The festive program ends with a gymnastics session to music, in which students perform synchronized movements in a row.
An interesting fact is that the national anthem is not performed only on the first day of the school year in China. In many schools this ritual is repeated every Monday morning or even daily. The aim is to strengthen the sense of national pride and identity.
India
In India, the first day of school is extremely special and unique. On this important day, a Hindu ritual is performed, symbolizing the moment when a child is ready to start school. This ritual is considered a second birth and carries a deep poetic meaning.
The ceremony begins with inspirational speeches from the teachers who encourage the children to work hard. The main difference from traditions in other parts of Asia is that instead of singing the national anthem, parents and children pay homage to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge.
The first day of school in India is not just an academic event, but a sacred holiday filled with deep values. It emphasizes the importance of knowledge and spiritual growth, and education is perceived as something sacred and extremely important.
Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, the start of the new school year usually begins in late August or early September and lasts for three days. During this period, the program is focused on festive events and is entirely dedicated to acquaintances and communication. Young people have the opportunity to get to know each other and make new friendships right from the start, before concentrating on academic subjects.
Unlike the tradition in our country, where the newcomers present bouquets to the teachers, here the tradition is the opposite – the teachers themselves present flowers to the students and even bring them treats. This warm and welcoming atmosphere aims to create a friendly and cozy environment where students feel welcome and motivated for the new school year, writes artportal.news.
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