Wednesday, 25 February 2026

The Second Romanian-Turkish Exchange under Erasmus+ Auspices 25/02/2026

The second online educational exchange, held on 25 February 2026, brought together students from Liceul Teoretic "Radu Vlădescu" and Etimesgut Şehit Kaymakam Muhammed Fatih Safitürk Anadolu İmam Hatip Lisesi in a dialogue that examined the strong cultural, social, and structural factors connecting Romanian and Turkish youth beyond the use of English as a lingua franca. Coordinated by their teachers of English, the students engaged in reflective discussions on shared historical legacies, family-centered values, and the role of extracurricular activities, identifying notable similarities in their daily routines and personal interests. Descriptions of school life revealed parallel patterns structured around classes, homework, and hobbies such as sports, music, films, and digital creativity.

A particularly engaging segment focused on culinary traditions. The comparison of sarma and mantı, alongside Romanian cheese pie, underscored common practices of hospitality and the social dimension of communal cooking within both cultures. These exchanges demonstrated how everyday traditions serve as meaningful expressions of collective identity.

From an educational perspective, the meeting enhanced the participants’ intercultural competence, critical thinking, and communicative confidence. By articulating their experiences and answering their peers’ questions, the students developed greater mutual respect and a deeper awareness of their shared regional context.

Ultimately, the exchange transcended academic objectives by fostering authentic friendships. The Romanian and Turkish students moved beyond institutional frameworks to discover shared aspirations, concerns, and even humour. The sustained interaction cultivated empathy, trust, and openness, transforming the intercultural dialogue into a genuine personal connection. This experience affirmed that such initiatives enrich educational practices and create lasting bonds, demonstrating that friendship remains one of the most significant and enduring outcomes of international cooperation.


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