New York First Lady Receives Ghanaian Students

Wife of New York Mayor, Chirlane McGray has commended efforts by governments in developing nations to improve the lives of young people and position them ahead of imment challenges posed by the new world order.

First Lady McGray made the commendation when she granted audience to a visiting Ghanaian student delegation at Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the Mayor of New York.

The delegation were in the United States to participate in this year's Model United Nations Conference organised by Global Classrooms and the United Nations.

Ghana's participation in the annual event was under the auspices of the Life Link Friendship Schools Ghana, the US Embassy in Accra and the Ministry of Foregn Affairs.

Forty Seven (47) delegates, drawn from twelve (12) Junior High Schools in the country participated in the GCIMUN. The delegates were drawn from: SOS HGS, Queensland International, St. Peters Mission, Sap’s School, Al Rayan International, Cradle of Grace, Rosharon Montessori, Tema Parents International, North Ridge Lyceum, St. John Bosco, Aves Academy and Happy Kids School.

They joined about 1,500 other delegates from all over the world.

This year’s conference simulated the committees of the United Nations, discussing pertinent issues affecting the globe. Militarization of Space, Fight against Malnutrition, Rights of Indigenous People and Combating Child Labour amongst others were some of the issues discussed. Resolutions were passed accordingly to provide solutions to these problems.

Mrs McCray said as future leaders, everything must be done to prepare them for what she described as "daunting task ahead".

" And this is why I find your visit as well as your quest to seek more knowledge worthy", she told the delegation.

The delegation also paid courtesy call on Ghana's Permanent Representative to the the UN, Mrs Martha Pobee.

In an interview, Emmanuella Mensah, a participating delegate from Cradle of Grace School said“ meeting with other delegates from around the world has been exciting and educative, and interacting with diplomats and high profiled personalities, was a great inspiration”.

The delegation led by Mr. Ernest Gyimah –Danquah, Director of Life Link Friendship Schools, commented on the growing opportunities for young people to learn and expand their knowledge in international relations and encouraged parents to register their wards in such educative programs.

Model United Nations (MUN) is a simulation of the United Nations Organisation. Students gather in committees such as the General Assembly, Economic and Social Council, etc, to represent a particular member nation of the UN, and work towards finding diplomatic solutions to critical issues that the world faces today.

Every year, Life Link Friendship Schools, organizes series of Model UN programs for Junior High School, High School and Tertiary to train future diplomats, teaching them about global issues, negotiation skills, leadership and crisis resolution.

Source: Peacefmonline.com