Pretoria’s German School Launches First School Exchange with Romania

The Deutsche Internationale Schule Pretoria (DSP) marked a significant milestone this week with the launch of its first-ever school exchange programme with Romania.

In a special welcome ceremony held on Monday, 13 October 2025, DSP officially received learners and teachers from the Honterus Gymnasium in Brașov (Kronstadt), Romania. The event was attended by H.E. Monica-Cecilia Sitaru, Romanian Ambassador to South Africa, Mrs Bianca Dortmuth, Head of the Political Department at the German Embassy, Mr Manuel Haß, Principal of the Deutsche Schule Pretoria, and Mrs Renate Küppers, DSP Exchange Coordinator. 

Representing the Romanian side were Mr Radu Chivărean, Principal of Honterus Gymnasium, accompanied by Mrs Sabine-Maya Schlattner and Mr Carol Szabolcs, the school’s exchange coordinators. 

The visiting learners, who come from German-speaking families, are being hosted by DSP families from 5 to 15 October 2025. The exchange focuses on a joint exploration of South Africa’s 20th-century history and aims to foster intercultural understanding and long-term collaboration between the two schools. A reciprocal visit to Romania is planned for 2026. 

Beyond the academic and cultural exchange, the Romanian group is also discovering South Africa’s natural and historical diversity. Their programme includes a game drive and visits to key heritage sites such as the Cullinan Diamond Mine, Freedom Park, and the Voortrekker Monument. 

“This exchange represents a wonderful opportunity for our learners to engage in meaningful dialogue, broaden their perspectives, and build friendships across borders,” said DSP Principal Mr Manuel Haß.

The partnership between DSP and Honterus Gymnasium reflects the school’s ongoing commitment to international learning and cultural connection — values that continue to shape the spirit of the Deutsche Internationale Schule Pretoria.