This year, many learners from our class participated in the LAU Model United Nations, a program that takes place annually, where each person represents a chosen country in a specific committee. Our school was to represent Iraq, and adopting the theme of “Live, Learn, Lead”. Every Saturday, for six weeks, we attended training sessions which strengthened our skills in public speaking, writing position papers and debating. We learned through the simulation experience how to live in a democratic society and became more familiar with the basics of negotiations and resolutions. As Iraqis, we argued about different matters in a diplomatic manner, sometimes even agreeing to disagree. Part of the experience was that of the “Global Village”, where each school had a stand to represent its chosen country, exhibiting its culture, including food, traditional cultural items, and even folkloric costumes. As we were wearing the Iraqi “a’baya”, in our stand, we offered the Iraqi specialty “Mansaf”, some Iraqi tea on the side, and dates for dessert. As for the final conference, we debated international current political issues and presented the Iraqi position. Finally, in the closing ceremony which took place in UNESCO, we all received certificates for our fruitful contribution. Our participation allowed us to develop our social relations and increase our cultural awareness of different values and traditions of numerous countries; we got acquainted with the problems taking place in the world around us. It was truly one of the best experiences we went through as a group, learning that we need to lead lives of purpose, to be the leaders of the future.
Aya Itani
Grade 10 Learner
View Photos | Go to News listing
