AUS students participate in International Youth Leadership Conference in Prague

Students from the Student Leadership Program recently took part in the 24th International Youth Leadership Conference (IYLC) held in Prague, Czech Republic.

The conference proceedings focused on a cross-cultural exchange of ideas concerning the future of world leadership. The lectures conducted were interactive and included educational activities and social interactions using a number of related events. These included: 'Simulation of the United Nations Security Council Emergency Meeting;' 'International Criminal Court Mock Pre-Trial;' 'Model European Parliament Proceedings;' visits to foreign embassies and the Senate of the Czech Republic; group debates as well as panel discussions on international security, environmental sustainability, rule of law, responsible leadership and mass media. 

"It was a week to remember. Our experience in Prague was great. We enjoyed our time, enhanced our knowledge and, literally, met people from all around the world. We were messengers of our own cultures and it felt great to represent our countries. If I was asked, I would do it again," said Maram Dalab, a public relations major.

"I believe IYLC is one of the conferences that students must attend as it is an opportunity to dispel misconceptions westerners might have about Arabs and Muslims in general. At the same time, it is important for me, as an IR student, to interact with people from different cultures and understand them as well," said Aisha Almidfaa, an international relations major,"

"The conference provided a platform for cultural exchange of ideas which made our participation significant as it helped enlighten other participants about our culture," said Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. "Our students presented information about Ramadan, cultural norms and displayed their traditional clothing during the conference. Differences are the essence of humanity and understanding and learning to respect these differences is crucial for ever lasting peace and harmony in the world," she added.