By Sibulele Mabusela

The 19th of May saw to the launch of international week, marked with a vibrant street parade that included Rhodes students and Grahamstown locals, all of whom were dressed in a variety of cultural gear and could be spotted carrying flags from around the world .

Beginning at the entrance of the Botanical gardens, the parade participants made their way to the city hall where a cultural variety concert awaited them. The acts marked performances from Rhodes Phd music student Luis Giminez, to local Grahamstown variety group Sakhuluntu.

The week commences from the 19th to the 25th of May and is in conjunction with the Rhodes international office and the United Nations’ World day for cultural diversity for dialogue and development.

Bsc honours student Elizabeth Bassey-Duke who was present at the parade commented on the event, saying she thought international week was a good thing because it not only united the diverse cultures which were present at Rhodes, but because it allowed people to share and appreciate each other’s differences. Agreeing with these sentiments was third year Bsc exchange student, Sarah Pope, who believed international week was great concept because it united both local students allowing them the opportunity to interact on a totally different level.

International week saw to various events organized by the international office such as international displays as well as the screening of a movie at filmfest.

The week is due to end on Africa day, which will take place on the 25th of May, with a Ted talk scheduled to take place at EdenGrove.