Every year, ISKL’s High School (HS) Grade 9 – 11 students embark on the Global Action Program (GAP) trip, an eagerly anticipated opportunity that takes learning beyond the classroom and into the heart of real-world experiences. The 2024 GAP trip was no exception, offering our students unforgettable journeys, including cultural immersion, community service, and the unique educational value of hands-on, experiential learning. Whether they ventured into remote mountain villages, engaged in environmental conservation projects, or explored diverse cultures, ISKL students returned after their GAP trips with stories that speak to this learning approach’s transformative power.
The life of an HS student at ISKL is very happening, taking time out to enhance their learning experiences and evolve as individuals while becoming more aware of the cultural communities around them proves fundamental.
Since 2009, the GAP Program has enhanced ISKL’s High School student’s learning as a mandatory component of the school curriculum and one which, in 2024, focuses on the following critical goals:
- Building Resilience
- Building Community Partnership
- Building Team Unity
- Building Community Connections
- Building Global Citizens
- Explore New Environments
GAP community projects are well-considered and curated for students to gain a greater understanding of nature, cultures, and their personal responsibility as global citizens to support the Global Citizen Framework by:
- Being reflective in the investigation process
- Considering varying perspectives
- Communicating thinking and ideas
- Taking action!
A collaborative approach requires sensitivity and appreciation of the wider world. As students learn essential life skills to support their growing maturity, individuality, resilience, and self-confidence, their interactions with local communities in the region are layered with camaraderie. Building budding friendships equates to making memories that students tend to reflect upon and remember for years.
During their travels throughout the region, the 2024 cohort of 480 students had the incredible opportunity to embark on 26 project itineraries in various countries, such as Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. Accompanied by dedicated faculty and staff members, the students were meticulously prepared and excited for the six days of adventure, service, and cultural experiences awaiting them outside campus!
Here is a summary of the itineraries they went on;
The 2024 GAP trip, a testament to ISKL’s commitment to nurturing global citizens, has profoundly impacted our students. Through immersive experiences, service learning, and meaningful connections, they have returned not only with memories that will last a lifetime but also with the skills and perspectives that will shape their futures.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Brian Hall and Shaun Gopal, the organizers, and the GAP team leads, organizers, and coordinators, whose tireless efforts and dedication have made this year’s GAP trips successful.
