A group of Chinese schoolchildren discover Bocholt

Twenty-nine pupils from Jiangnan Middle School in the Chinese city of Wuxi visited Bocholt from 30 June to 3 July 2026. Together with their chaperones, they learnt about Bocholt's educational institutions, the town's industrial history and current climate change issues.

On the evening of their arrival, First Deputy Mayor Gudrun Koppers welcomed the 37 guests to an official reception at the Europa-Haus. Representatives of the Bocholt German-Chinese Society also took part in the event.

""I am delighted to welcome the school pupils from our twin town of Wuxi to Bocholt. It is precisely these personal encounters between young people that help to foster mutual understanding and keep our friendship alive in the future"," said Koppers.

A particular focus of the visit was on educational exchange. At St. Georg Grammar School, the Chinese pupils attended lessons and got talking to pupils from Bocholt. During a subsequent visit to the Bocholt campus of the Westphalian University of Applied Sciences, they gained an insight into university life and the local higher education landscape.

In addition, the group explored the town and its history. At the LWL Textile Museum, the guests learnt interesting facts about the town's long-standing textile industry. During a digital city treasure hunt on the theme of "Climate City Bocholt%$, the young people also engaged in a fun way with climate protection, sustainable mobility and city life. After four eventful days, the group continued their journey.