São Paulo Student Takes Local Sculpture to New Zealand for Cultural Exchange

Kaique de Oliveira, a 16-year-old student from Capão Bonito, São Paulo, has embarked on a three-month exchange program in New Zealand. Kaique, who is in his second year of high school, was selected for the "Prontos pro Mundo" (Ready for the World) program sponsored by the São Paulo State Education Secretariat (Seduc-SP). This program covers all expenses for the selected students, with one spot allocated per municipality. Kaique has been dedicated to learning English since elementary school, intensifying his efforts in the 9th grade and taking proficiency tests in his first year of high school. His family expressed immense pride and happiness over his selection, despite the emotional farewell. Kaique's father, Paulo César de Oliveira, highlighted his son's dedication as a merit earned through hard work and acknowledged the joy he brings to the family. Currently in Prebbleton, New Zealand, Kaique is staying with a host family and finds the environment organized and welcoming, despite the cold weather. He aims to further improve his English, make new friends, and return to Brazil with significant learning experiences. He believes in pursuing one's dreams and plans to share his exchange experiences with others upon his return. As a cultural ambassador, Kaique brought a special sculpture created by local Capão Bonito artisan Jango Perna. The small wooden figure, depicting a tropeirismo character holding a guitar, symbolizes the rural culture of the São Paulo interior. Kaique intends to gift this sculpture to his host family as a representation of his hometown's heritage. Jango Perna, a long-time artisan known for his wooden crafts, views this as an honor, marking his first piece to reach Oceania. The "Prontos pro Mundo" program annually offers a thousand exchange scholarships to high-achieving students in countries like New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and the UK, requiring participants to meet academic and attendance criteria.