Dalat, Vietnam, 18 July 2016 -- As a yearly event during summer and thanks to the support of the Community of Don Rua in Dalat, Vietnam, together with volunteers coming from different countries, the 13th English-speaking Camp, which will last from July 9 to July 31, has been started.
This is an annual event which has attracted several students. The English-speaking camp is a summer activity which has been held for those who show interest in English and want to immerse and experience an English-speaking environment.
During 21 days of the camp, the participants are expected to use “only English” – which is not their mother tongue- to communicate with one another and to organize all activities. The “English nature” is the unique characteristic of the camp.
On July 9, before the opening, a program was organized in the compound of Don Bosco Dalat for volunteers and all campers as an “ice-breaking” activity. Everyone was very enthusiastic and amused, especially with interesting interviews. Students participating in the camp for the first time were shy and hesitant since they were required to communicate in English. Due to the encouragement of volunteers, new campers overcome their obstacles and start engaging in dialogues in English.
On July 10, the opening ceremony took place in the presence of Salesians of Don Bosco Dalat, teachers, volunteers and a good number of campers. As opening remark, Father Joseph Nguyen Chan Hung, Rector of Don Bosco Dalat, shared with students about his experience in learning English. He challenged them to overcome their fear and gain confidence in speaking English. Father Dominic La Minh Cuong, SDB, the In-charge of Catholic Students and director of the camp, emphasized the importance of English, particularly for young people because it is one of the key elements which will provide good opportunities for them in the future. One of the highlights of the opening ceremony was the interviews with volunteers who had assisted in previous camps as well as volunteers who assist in this camp for the first time. The camp not only helps students to improve their English skills, but also makes them grow with activities such as cooking, games, sports and picnics at weekends… The daily Mass in English also helps campers to participate in liturgical celebrations.
The English-speaking camp, which will last for 21 days, is not a long period of time, but it helps to change the mentality of students towards communicating in English. This camp enables students to soar high and fulfill their dreams through the efficiency in English. Hopefully, this summer camp will be a successful and memorable one. Moreover, participating in the English-speaking camp, each student may have joy and obtain precious experience in practicing English, which is useful for their future professions. With this camp, the Salesians of Don Bosco Dalat, together with volunteers, aim to help the participants to build up their competency in the English language and develop among them beautiful friendship. It is not too late to participate in this summer camp and start practicing English from today… every day. Attending the English-speaking camp 2016 is a wise choice to spend their summer!
