Norway is the story
about a tiny and poor country that thanks to the discovery
of huge oil resources became one of the richest countries
in the world. This, along with political stability has
made Norway into a world leader in social welfare, and
is probably why the United Nations in 2006 announced Norway
as the best place to live in for the sixth year in a row.
The struggle against a rugged
environment and, at times, a hazardous climate has made
a creative, imaginative, strong and independent people
out of the Norwegians, but it has also coloured the
way they live. Seasons change the way people live and
act. In the winter time most Norwegians hurry home from
work or school to spend time with their families, and
this can be reflected in the importance of having a
warm and hospitable dwelling to share. In the summertime
most Norwegians want to spend as much time as possible
outdoors. Many have summerhouses or cabins by the water
or in the mountains to go to for recreations, or they
simply visit the closest park or beach for fun and sunbathing.
Skiing is a major sport in Norway,
no wonder as most Norwegians claim to having been born
with skis on their feet. For those who prefer other
activities are football (soccer), handball, basketball,
biking, track and field, and marshal arts just a few
of common alternatives.
Norwegians start their basic
lower school at the age of six, it lasts for seven years
and is followed by three years of middle school. After
ten years of education Norwegians can choose between
several fields of study in upper secondary education.
These ranges from academic studies for those who want
to go to university, to trade schools for those who
want to become plumbers, electricians, carpenters and
so on.
Politically Norway has been a
contributor to create peace around the world, with several
commitments in troubled spots like the Middle East,
Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. In addition Norway is the
host of the Nobel Peach Prize, which is rewarded to
outstanding people around the world for their peace
efforts.
As an exchange student in Norway you will experience
this Norwegian hospitality and tolerance first hand.
Thank
you YFU Norway for the information and marvelous pictures.
