Ban Ki-moon to teach UAE kids diplomacy, sustainability

dubai — Ban Ki-moon — the former secretary-general of the UN and one of the world’s most admired leaders — has been named the official Ambassador for the Model United Nations (MUN) at GEMS World Academy schools. And with this position, he will be sharing his insights and expertise with the schools’ students in the UAE.

Designed to shape the youth’s view of the world, MUN is an education simulation activity in which students learn about diplomacy, international relations and the UN. The South Korean statesman will be the school’s MUN ambassador for three years.

“It is critical that today’s youth take on responsibility for the world we live in from an early educational platform, and it is essential that educators empower students to talk about issues such as the environment and sustainability so that we can limit

any adverse effects on our future generations. In partnering with GEMS Education, we can reach a wide audience to instil change for the betterment of humankind,” said Ban, who is also the co-chair of the Ban Ki-moon

Centre for Global Citizens.

Ban will be invited to open MUN’s upcoming annual conference, where GEMS World Academy Dubai students will be able to participate in simulated sessions of the General Assembly or Security Council; get advice on diplomacy skills; and learn about key issues that impact the 21st century.

Sunny Varkey, founder and chairman of GEMS Education, said: “Ban Ki-moon is a true statesman who has impressed the world with his diplomatic skills and his decisive stance on a variety of pressing issues faced by humanity. Our students have an unrivalled learning opportunity to take notes from such an inspirational figure. They can develop a stronger understanding of diplomacy and gain a clearer worldview on current issues, helping them become truly global citizens.”

Ban has also agreed to contribute to the Global Education Skills Forum, the annual event in Dubai that brings together leaders from the public, private and social sectors around the world and culminates with the Varkey Foundation’s $1-million Global Teacher Prize.

It is critical that today’s youth take on responsibility for the world we live in from an early educational platform.”

Ban Ki-moon,

former secretary-general, UN