International student Nayef Alodaibi had pensioners in fits of laughter when he asked them if they’d like to marry his granddad at a festive community event.
The 18-year-old from Kuwait was told he “should be on stage” as he talked and cracked jokes while making Christmas decorations with the elderly residents at St. John’s Hospital.
The group of ESOL students gave up several hours of their time to add a festive touch to the rooms and corridors of the charity. They made paper chains and folded the pages of old magazines to transform them into free-standing Christmas tree decorations.
Nayef, who is studying English at City of Bath College until March, told the elderly residents all about the customs and traditions of his home country, including how his family will choose his wife and the differences between Kuwaiti tribes.
He said: “This is so much fun, but I’ve been talking so much I haven’t made many Christmas decorations. I can’t do two things at once!
“I like to talk, I get to practice my English and tell everyone about Kuwait. Some people have the wrong idea about Arab countries so I like to tell them what it is really like.”
He added: “I’d be happy to visit St. John’s Hospital every day. These people are now my friends.”
Nayef explained to the pensioners that his Granddad was a Prince in Kuwait before showing them several photos of him. He joked that although his grandfather already had two wives, one of the ladies “could be number three”.
The pensioners seemed tempted by the offer and joked back with comments such as: “I’ll have to check with my husband” and “That’s a shame, I may have married the wrong man!”
Student Magdalena Pericas, 25, of Spain said the students and pensioners had enjoyed sharing stories and laughing at jokes together.
She said: “We are all in the same class so it’s nice to do something different together away from the College.
“We are improving our English and learning a new skill; I’ve never made Christmas decorations like this before.”
The two visits were organised by Student Engagement Officer Scarlett Mosnier to encourage students to give back to the community. The charity, which is opposite the College, provides Almhouse accommodation and financial support to deprived people in Bath.
Anna Ferguson, activities and volunteer co-ordinator at St John’s Hospital, said the pensioners had thoroughly enjoyed their time with the students.
She said: “It’s been a perfect example of different generations learning from each other.
“It’s been fantastic; the two age groups have come together and talked non-stop.”
