The public is invited to help Vancouver Island University celebrate International Education Week Oct. 29-Nov. 2.
Highlights include a Multicultural Festival, free concerts, lectures, performances, cultural displays, ethnic food and more.
“VIU is part of a Canada-wide celebration of international education in all its dimensions,” said Meg Savory, International Education coordinator. “This event acknowledges the significant contributions international students make to campus life and to the community.”
The Multicultural Festival takes place Friday (Nov. 2) from noon to 3 p.m. in the upper cafeteria of the Nanaimo campus (building 300). Students representing dozens of countries will participate in a fashion show and talent show, set up cultural displays and mingle with fellow students and the public.
Members of the public are also invited to a free information session by CUSO International on volunteer opportunities overseas on Monday (Oct. 29); a Music of the World concert, Sounds of India on Tuesday (Oct. 30); and a free performance by a Zimbabwean Marimba musician on Thursday (Nov. 1).
The public can purchase international themed lunches all week in VIU’s main cafeteria, including cuisine from Latin America, Middle East, Indian, Chinese and Germany.
As part of the festivities, the Worldbridger film series is hosting a film called The First Grader on Nov. 1, an uplifting story of an 84-year old Kenyan ex-freedom fighter who fights for his right to go to school. Everyone is welcome, 7 p.m., Building 356, Room 109.
For a complete schedule of events during International Education Week, please visit http://web.viu.ca/iew/.
VIU enrolls more than 1,600 international students from 85 countries.