Swiss Stories

Community feedback at the Yii Adult Basic Education Centre in Moyen-Chari Region (run by PADI) © Enfants du Monde (Florent Dupertuis)

Multilingualism in Swiss schools inspires international cooperation

Science & Education
For students in Switzerland, being taught in their regional language – French, German, Italian or Romansh – is the norm. Many children around the world, however, attend school in a language they don't understand. Plurilingualism and teaching languages in schools have long been important values in Switzerland – and this strength of the Swiss school system serves as a blueprint for the country's international cooperation in its programmes to support education.
© ETH-Bibliothek Zürich, Bildarchiv

150 years ago, Europe's first mountain railway opened on the Rigi

History
Cogwheel trains are an iconic part of Switzerland's proud rail history. A look back through the archives of the first Alpine cogwheel line, between the cantons of Lucerne and Schwyz.
Yann Sommer

Yann Sommer, a national hero

Society
The Swiss football team's goalkeeper Yann Sommer has become the hero of an entire country thanks to his outstanding performance in the Euro 2020 match against France. Let's take a closer look at this young father who is as successful as he is unassuming.

by Bertrand Monnard

The EnviCoPal team presenting its water filters to trainers during a visit to Palestine. © Cewas

Entrepreneurial innovation in the water sector

Environment
Social entrepreneurship offers an innovative approach to tackling the lack of universal access to drinking water and high-quality sanitation services. Social enterprises are economic entities that mainly pursue social and environmental goals. Their innovation potential has been recognised around the world for several years now.
Perfume in the making

How Geneva became the Silicon Valley of fragrances and flavours

Society
Around the world, Geneva is regarded as a magnet for diplomacy and watchmaking savoir-faire. But the French-speaking canton is also a global hub for scents and tastes, and home of the world’s two leading players. We trace this success back to its origins.

by Olivia Chang

Hand hygiene © Julien Gregorio/phovea/HUG

COVID-19: Dr Clean Hands

Science & Education
Hydroalcoholic gel is a much sought-after product these days. It was developed by Dr Didier Pittet, infectious disease expert and director of the Infection Control Programme of Geneva University Hospitals (HUG). A pioneer in hospital hygiene, Dr Pittet developed, together with HUG pharmacist William Griffiths, this hydroalcoholic solution which has revolutionised hand disinfection methods in medical settings. Rubbing one's hands with this product is a very simple step that has been adopted worldwide and saves 8 million lives every year.
Craftsmanship of mechanical watchmaking © SFOC

Swiss traditions for UNESCO's cultural heritage

History
Tradition suisse
UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage aims to protect the living traditions and know-how of local communities. Eight Swiss traditions have been chosen to be put forward for this recognition, which is already enjoyed by the Vevey winegrowers' festival, among others.