Sikh temple open for excursion

Students from Columba Catholic Primary School, pictured with Harpreet Singh.

By Mitchell Clarke

Various primary schools have recently visited the Officer Sikh Gurdwara under a government initiative which aims to build inter cultural harmony among students through awareness of diverse communities within Cardinia.

Siri Guru Nanak Darbar (SGND) will welcome students and staff from John Henry Primary School, Columba Catholic Primary School, Bridgewood Primary School and Lakeside Primary School where they’ll learn about Sikh faith and culture.

Students listened to religious hymns, toured the temple, listened to a presented by Dr Harpreet Singh and enjoyed a free traditional meal prepared by members of the Sikh community.

“These visits of schools around the 550th birthday of Guru Nanak are symbolic that his teachings are very relevant even in today’s context,” Dr Singh said.

“It’s best to share knowledge with our young students who will be spreading principles of social cohesion in years to come.”

John Henry Primary School assistant principal Lynelle Broekhoff said the visit allowed 43 students to have the opportunity to learn more about some of the diverse cultures that make up the community.

“Intercultural interactions have become a part of everyday life in our increasingly multicultural and globalised world,” Ms Broekhoff said.

“Developing intercultural knowledge, skills, understandings and living with others in the diverse world of the 21st century is an essential component of the curriculum at John Henry Primary School.”

The program was first launched earlier this year by Bass MP Jordan Crugnale.

Anyone interested in volunteering or getting involved in similar initiatives, visit www.sgnd.com.au.