RotaXion

Children & youth

Jun 9

Written By Annikken Grieg Sæthre

Who: Bergen Rotaryklubb

What: RotaXion

Where: Bergen, Norway

Project period: 2026-2029

About the project

The RotaXion project is an integration initiative involving the introductory classes at Rothaugen and Lynghaug lower secondary schools in Bergen. It includes approximately 60–75 newly arrived immigrant and refugee students aged 14–16, divided across three classes. The students come from a wide range of countries in Africa, Asia, and Europe. In the initial phase of their schooling in Norway, they receive intensive Norwegian language instruction before being gradually integrated into mainstream classes.

RotaXion has made these students the main participants in its activities, supported by “fadders” (peer mentors) from other classes. The school coordinator ensures balanced participation by including students from both economically disadvantaged families and those from more resource-stable backgrounds, promoting diversity and inclusion.

Many of the students in the introductory classes come from families with limited financial resources, which often prevents them from participating in organized leisure activities. Several also face challenging living conditions due to poverty. The project helps ensure that these children gain access to a varied and socially engaging leisure program.

The aim is not only to support their integration into the local Norwegian community, but also to introduce them to new activities and social arenas that foster cultural and social competence, build networks, strengthen a sense of belonging, and reduce exclusion. By organizing joint events between introductory class students from both schools, the project also expands their social circles, helping them form new friendships and strengthen their connections within Bergen.

In participation with the teachers and counselors from the two schools, we plan activities that includes competitions and team-building sessions at “Fangene på fortet,” MegaZone, a ski day at Furedalen, sailing with Bergen Seilforening, indoor skydiving at Voss Vind, Circus Agora, bowling at Åsane, FlipZone trampoline park, and beach volleyball at Åsane Arena etc.

About the organization

The Rotary movement is a global network of service-minded people dedicated to creating positive change in communities around the world. Rotary brings together professionals from diverse backgrounds to exchange ideas, build lasting friendships, and take action on humanitarian challenges. Through its international foundation, Rotary International supports projects focused on peacebuilding, disease prevention, education, clean water, and local community development. Rotary clubs are non-political and non-religious, united by the motto “Service Above Self.”

In Bergen, Bergenhus Rotary Club is one of the city’s established clubs, chartered in 1959. The club is made up of members from a wide range of professions who meet weekly to share knowledge, listen to speakers, and engage in fellowship. A strong emphasis is placed on both local engagement and international service projects. One of its key initiatives is the RotaXion programme, which offers meaningful experiences for young people in local schools, helping to develop leadership and social awareness. The club also collaborates with organisations such as SK Brann through community-focused initiatives and supports humanitarian projects abroad.

With a balance of professional networking, social activities, and service work, Bergenhus Rotary Club reflects the core values of Rotary while contributing actively to the Bergen community.