Czech emigres gather in a small town in East Bohemia

What could possibly bring forty-two people of all ages, shapes and sizes from different corners of the world to the little Czech town of Dobruska in the foothills of the Orlicke Mountains? The answer is simple. In one way or another they all have roots going back to the Czech Republic, and they are in Dobruska on scholarships given by the Czech Foreign Ministry, to spend a month learning the language of their forebears, and getting to know the country that they--or their ancestors--left many years ago. David Vaughan went to meet some of the students and teachers, and they told him of their impressions.

If you have Czech roots you can find out more about the Dobruska course, which takes place every year, by contacting your nearest Czech Embassy or Consulate.