CISH Celebrates PASCH Induction

The Canadian International School Hefei (CISH) proudly marked a significant milestone on Thursday afternoon as it officially joined the global PASCH network – “Schools: Partners for the Future.” Supported by the German Federal Foreign Office and coordinated by the Goethe-Institut, the PASCH initiative connects over 2,000 schools worldwide that place a strong emphasis on the German language and intercultural learning.

The inauguration ceremony took place in the school’s Plantroom and welcomed esteemed guests, staff, students, and parents. The event was opened by the Head of School, Ms. Peggy Gorman-Mitchell, who highlighted the school’s commitment to multilingual education and global citizenship.

Following her welcome, Mr. Sebastian Scholze, representative of the Goethe-Institut, delivered a warm greeting on behalf of the organization. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of fostering international understanding and praised CISH for its dedication to promoting German language and culture.

A highlight of the event was a heartfelt speech by former student council president Oskar Opfer, who reflected on his academic journey and the role the German Program played in shaping his path.

A welcome video produced by the grade 8 students added a creative and personal touch to the celebration, showcasing the talents and enthusiasm of the school community.

The ceremony continued with the official signing of the PASCH partnership document and the presentation of the PASCH plaque, symbolizing CISH’s formal entry into the international network. These symbolic acts underscore the school's growing connection to a broader global educational landscape.

The event concluded with an informal gathering over coffee, tea, and light refreshments, allowing guests to connect and share in the excitement of this new chapter. Later in the evening, invited guests joined a celebratory dinner at Restaurant Landgraf on European Street.

The ceremony was graciously hosted by Ms. Svenja Schulz-Opfer, Head of the German Department, who has played a key role in building and developing the school’s German program. "Being part of PASCH strengthens our mission to offer students a truly international education grounded in cultural exchange, language competence, and personal growth," she noted.

As the CISH community looks ahead, joining the PASCH network opens doors to new projects, global partnerships, and educational opportunities that will enrich the lives of students for years to come.