Key Points
- Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar (SGND), Officer, in collaboration with Pakenham MP Emma Vulin, organised an exclusive trip for Punjabi children to visit the Victorian Parliament.
- The visit aimed to give the children a unique opportunity to learn about decision-making processes, laws, and government representation.
- The organisers expressed their gratitude for the visit which had sparked the children's inquisitiveness.
Twenty-four Punjabi children from a Sikh temple in Melbourne's southeast recently visited Victorian Parliament to explore its inner workings.
In collaboration with Pakenham MP, Emma Vulin, Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar (SGND) organised the special trip to provide the children with an enriching experience and a deeper understanding of the state's political system.
Speaking to SBS Punjabi, Taranjeet Singh, a Year 10 student at Beaconshill School, shared his thoughts on the visit, saying it was a unique learning experience.
"It was great to have hands-on experience to witness the significance of the institution and its role in shaping the state's governance," Taranjeet said.
"I learnt that there are 88 members of the Legislative Assembly that sit in the chamber we visited and also had the opportunity to ask our questions."
The tour group in the Legislative Assembly chamber. Credit: Supplied.
"Our kids played a crucial role in organising the day and helping us with event management," Mr Kandra said.
"The attendees were impressed by the selfless volunteering of our children, and member of parliament, Emma Vulin, invited the kids to visit the Parliament."
Ms Vulin told SBS Punjabi the children asked so many clever questions, and many raised their hands to say they wanted to become future politicians.
"By witnessing the inner workings of the state's political system and engaging in interactive sessions, the children gained a deeper appreciation of democracy and the importance of civic participation," Ms Vulin said.
"I think there's a lot more diversity in Parliament now, and it's something we are most proud of."
The group also visited the Parliament's library. Credit: Supplied.
Meanwhile, eight-year-old Jazleen Kaur, from Lakeside College, said she "thoroughly enjoyed this visit".
Mr Kandra said these kinds of events embodied the spirit of the Australian multicultural community.
Tune into this interview with some of the children, Ms Vulin and Mr Kandra to hear more details:
LISTEN TO
Punjabi children visits Victorian Parliament
08:50
