3 weeks ago, the Pädagogische Hochschule Steiermark hosted the long-awaited International Week. It was the 22nd International Week.

This event promised a week full of cultural diversity, unity and enriching experiences.

The International Week in Graz is an annual event that brings together people from all over the world to celebrate and share their unique cultures. The event aims to promote intercultural understanding, foster global friendships and highlight the importance of cultural diversity.

The programme of events: 

• Welcome for the colleagues from all over the world
• School visits
• Round table talks “World Cafe”
• Workshop sessions
• Immerse in Austrian culture

School Visits

The second step of the International Week was guided visits to local schools in Graz. International partners have a great opportunity to get a first-hand look at the Austrian education system and gain insights into teaching practices, school management and student engagement strategies. They had the opportunity to interact with local teachers and students and gain new perspectives on education.

Round table talks “World Cafe”

During this event, professors were able to share some insights into education in their countries. These discussions involved not only local students but also international students. It helped to get a clearer picture of the education systems in different countries.

There are some topics that were discussed:

• Curriculum development
• Recent trends
• the challenges and impact of technology on learning
• Teacher preparation programmes
• diversity and inclusion, adapting to the diverse needs of students

Workshops and Seminars

As well as attending, international professors led interactive workshops and seminars on topics ranging from art and mathematics to digital methods and democracy.   These sessions provide a hands-on opportunity to learn and appreciate the intricacies of different cultures.

Take part in a range of workshops and seminars led by education experts from around the world. Topics include innovative teaching techniques, inclusive education, digital learning and classroom management strategies. These sessions are designed to give you practical knowledge and tools that you can use in your own classrooms.

Immerse in Austrian culture

And now let’s travel to the picturesque Austrian countryside, to the Zotter Chocolate Factory.

The Zotter Chocolate Factory is a magical experience for chocolate lovers of all ages. From the moment you arrive, the sweet smell of cocoa beans and the promise of indulgence set the tone for an unforgettable adventure.

As you walk through the factory, you will see the chocolate making process up close. Watching the skilled chocolatiers at work is fascinating. You see cocoa beans being roasted, ground and transformed into liquid chocolate. The precision and passion that goes into each step is truly inspiring.

No visit to Zotter would be complete without a visit to the Zotter Shop. It’s a chocolate lover’s paradise, filled with an array of products to take home. From beautifully wrapped chocolate bars to unique gift sets, you’re sure to find the perfect souvenir for yourself or a loved one. The shop also stocks a selection of Zotter’s famous drinking chocolates – a must try!

A visit to the Zotter Chocolate Factory is more than just a tour; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of chocolate. Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur or just someone with a sweet tooth, this experience offers a delightful mix of education, indulgence and fun. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when passion, creativity and sustainability come together. If you’re in Austria, don’t miss the chance to explore this chocolate wonderland – it’s a treat for the senses and the soul.

Let’s move on. The next stop is a traditional Austrian wine tavern. Many Buschenschank’s have outdoor seating with stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding countryside.

The food served in a Buschenschank is a celebration of local produce. Platters of cold cuts, including smoked ham, sausages and cured meats, are accompanied by a variety of cheeses, freshly baked bread and spreads such as Liptauer (a spicy cheese spread) and Verhackert (a spread made from finely chopped bacon). Seasonal salads, pickled vegetables and hearty dishes such as Styrian bean salad with pumpkin seed oil also grace the table.

Finally, I would like to emphasise that International Week in Graz is such a vibrant event that celebrates cultural diversity, global cooperation and educational exchange. This annual celebration brings together students, academics, professionals and residents from all over the world, fostering a dynamic environment of learning and cultural appreciation. As such, it is an integral part of Graz’s identity as a centre of learning, culture and international cooperation.

Some of the photos were taken by Iryna Rozmaita and some of them are official from PhSt