Londonderry pupils link up with Gazan counterparts

Pupils from St Mary's College in Creggan took part in the pioneering link-up giving a solo singing performance, a demonstration of their artwork and a science demonstration.

The St Mary's girls then learned about the lives of their counterparts in Gaza through a demonstration of artwork plus a display of traditional Palestinian dancing.

Mrs L. McMorrow, Vice Principal of St Mary's College, said: "It was a very exciting opportunity for all those involved."

St Mary's Pupil, Caitlin, said: "It showed us that everyone in the world is the same and enjoy the same things."

And St Mary's Pupil, Emily, said: "We learned that they want the same rights and opportunities that we have."

The technology necessary to have the link up was provided by HP and C2K.

The live link up was hosted by local teachers, Mr P. McCourt and Mr S. Crockett.

Mr Crockett said: "There was a lot of work and organisation by the staff and students of St Mary's College that went into this day.

"It was a tremendous opportunity, which proved a great success!

"It was, in fact, the first time that the pupils from Abasan Girls School had contact with pupils beyond Palestine."

The live link up between St Mary's College and Abasan Girls School was part of an innovated, pilot programme called "Link for Learning."

The programme is designed to provide an opportunity for students in Ireland and Palestine to learn about each others cultures and lives by working together using modern Information Technology.

It was developed by the Derry Friends of Palestine Educational Committee working in Derry and Palestine.

To find out more about the "Link for Learning" programme check out the following website: http://www.derryfriendsofpalestine.org/?page_id=54.