Prince Harry and Meghan Markle began the second day of their Colombian tour with a visit to La Giralda School in Bogota, engaging with students about emotional well-being in education amid heightened security measures.
The visit was marked by significant security, with the couple surrounded by soldiers, armed police, and private security. Their convoy included at least 14 vehicles, and the school’s perimeter was heavily guarded. A local taxi driver referred to the area as “bandit country,” highlighting the heightened security presence necessary for the visit.
Among the security measures was a Kevlar shield, known as a ballistic briefcase, used to protect against potential threats. This shield was visibly present during Harry’s visit as he planted a tree at the school, and it is also used for protecting the country’s Vice President, Francia Márquez, who has faced several threats in the past.
The school, located in Bogota’s Santa Fe district, is known for its challenging environment. The area is noted for its high levels of violence and crime, as depicted in media reports. Despite this, La Giralda School is renowned for its educational excellence.
During their visit, Harry and Meghan were warmly welcomed by the school’s headmaster, Serafin Ordoñez. The couple participated in various activities, including an art session, a kindergarten class visit, and tree planting. Meghan, wearing a Loro Piana linen blazer and butterfly earrings once owned by Princess Diana, helped a young student plant a walnut tree.
The school conducted unique concerts and presentations, which included traditional Colombian music and dancing. Students also presented presents to Harry and Meghan’s children, Archie and Lilibet, including Colombian ponchos and personalized messages. The visit included a tour of the school’s historical memory museum, where pupils display artwork honoring victims of previous battles.
The pair also went to the school’s social and emotional gym, where Harry practiced boxing and pupils exhibited meditation techniques. The school’s CEO, Diana Basto, lauded the visit, calling it a remarkable and emotional event for both staff and children.
The Sussexes’ first day in Colombia included a warm welcome by Vice President Francia Márquez and her husband, Rafael Yerney Pinillo. They enjoyed a traditional Colombian breakfast before visiting another local school and attending various cultural events. Meghan emphasized the importance of creating a safer online environment during a panel discussion.
