2015 April Tzu Ching Humanities Seminar

This April, the national Tzu Ching Humanities Seminar was held at Dirkie Uys Primary School in Durban, spanning from the 3rd-6th April 2015. We were host to approximately 70 students, with a large number of participants being from a relatively young age group. This year, Tzu Ching wanted to emphasize the strength, dedication and power of the youth and how we have the potential to rise and become superheroes within our communities.

- by Joanne Lan -

Photo by: Joanne Lan



Photo by: Joanne Lan

During the camp, a number of lessons were held and hosted by our curriculum team, who special tailored each lesson to suit our youthful participants. Guest speakers, which included our beloved Tzu Chi alumni, were invited to share with us their past experiences and knowledge on topics such as Tzu Chi etiquette and mannerisms, the benefits of vegetarianism, the beauty of Tzu Ching, the strength of today's youth as well as seizing the moment and making a conscious decision to help others in need. The other lessons hosted by our curriculum team involved an interactive learning experience such as debates between teams on Tzu Chi's 10 precepts, a Q&A session where the learners had the opportunity of posing questions to a panel of senior Tzu Ching regarding requirements and expectations for tertiary studies as well as possible career choices, group discussions on their thoughts regarding Master Cheng Yen's spirit and achievements as well as a vibrant Tzu Ching presentation on each area's efforts and activities.

A lesson regarding filial piety and the perpetual, selfless love from our parents was perhaps one of the most touching lessons presented during this


Photo by: Joanne Lan

year's camp. Tzu Ching staff and the learners were encouraged to phone their parents, seize the moment and gather up their courage to say the three simple words we find so difficult to share during our daily lives, "I love you." It was a sentimental, moving and eye-opening experience into how in today's busy world, we take for granted the unconditional love our parents have for us.Through each other's experience and tears, as well as the exchange of love shown between parent and child, our hearts were warmed and our appreciation deepened.    




Photo by: Bill Lu

Field games were also held throughout the duration of the camp to promote teamwork, generate laughter and fun and create bonds between the learners. This year's field games, however, held an objective in which the teams were playing for special ingredients, such as fried tofu and tempura, for the Hot Pot dinner which further encouraged spirited competition. 

The final night was host to a special BIG HERO event, where each group presented their Tzu Chi spirit inspired superhero performance which they had been preparing throughout the duration of the camp, as well as the closing ceremony which included the camp reflection presentations compiled by our documentary team and the distribution of souvenir items to both the staff and learners. It was a great feeling hearing what the learners enjoyed and gained from this year's camp; many were touched by the compassion and spirit of Tzu Chi and also shared their appreciation of being allowed the opportunity to create long-lasting friendships. What was even more endearing was hearing the eagerness of some learners to continue on the path of Tzu Chi by attending future events and dedicating themselves to doing good deeds.  

Despite the fact that many learners were of a very young age, our Tzu Ching were able to take it in their stride and adjust themselves in managing such a young group. It provided us with a unique learning experience and the opportunity to grow the seed of love from grassroot levels. Overall, it was yet another successful camp thanks to the wonderful efforts of the staff and the beautiful energy from the learners.

[Special thanks]:
- Administration team
- Curriculum team
- Documentary team
- Logistics team
- Student leaders
- Tzu Chi Alumni
- Culinary team
- Accompanying SG&SB/TC Commissioners