From January 20 to 29, 2024, Zhao Guangchao (cohort of 2021), Li Yuyang, Zhu Shiyang, and Feng Ze (cohort of 2022) from QMES took part in a practical activity as part of the Youth Global Competence Talent Development Programme organised by QMES. They conducted a field exchange at the United Nations Headquarters and Office in Geneva.

The project lasted for 10 days. Under the guidance of the organisers of the programme, students conducted research visits to various institutions, including the United Nations Headquarters, the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Trade Organization (WTO), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), as well as the United Nations Water Resources Organization. Interactive training sessions were held at United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Furthermore, students participated in a Model United Nations Conference, engaging in diplomatic negotiations and interactive discussions on topics such as multilateral diplomacy principles and “Green Earth”. On January 26th, they delivered group closing speeches and presented their achievements, receiving graduation certificates from the World Federation of United Nations Association (WFUNA). During breaks in the programme, the students, under the guidance of their teachers, visited landmarks such as the Palace of Nations, broadening their international perspectives.

During the event, four students from QMES enthusiastically participated in various activities, garnering unanimous praise from both faculty and peers for their outstanding performance. They aptly showcased the cross-cultural communication skills and global competency of QMES students. Through immersive training and field exchanges, everyone delved deep into the workings and mission of the United Nations and broadened their understanding of themselves as “global citizens”. This experience enhanced their ability to tackle global challenges, engage in global governance, and tell good Chinese stories.

Zhao Guangchao

“This programme is not only an educational trip, but also a novel experience for me. Through the programme, I learnt about the operation mode and working mechanism of international organisations, exchanged ideas with young people from different backgrounds and cultures, and made a group of like-minded friends. The most impressive experience for me was the inspiring conference organised by the distinguished representatives of the WFUNA. The conference explored in-depth issues related to global citizenship. I was impressed by the proposition ‘Global Citizenship - Who are we?’ and was prompted to re-evaluate and redefine the role of the individual in this interconnected world. Not only did the programme help me understand the complexity of multilateral international relations, but it also opened up my global perspective and allowed me to grow.”

Through the programme, Zhao Guangchao has gained a keener understanding of the development dilemmas currently shared by all humankind and a deeper reflection on how the international community can work together to address these global challenges while reinforcing his sense of mission and responsibility to participate in the promotion of global governance as a Chinese youth in the future.

Li Yuyang

“Whether it is the United Nations headquarters, the Red Cross headquarters or the museums, they all demonstrate mankind's pursuit of peace, human rights and humanitarianism. During the programme, I learned the purposes and principles of the United Nations and the importance of international human rights law, realised that global problems need to be solved through communication and cooperation, and raised my awareness of global citizenship to contribute to promoting change. In my future study and work, I will endeavour to cultivate my ability to respond to global challenges, participate in global governance and tell good Chinese stories, combine my ideals and aspirations with the peaceful development of the world, and contribute to the power of global governance. In addition, by visiting the places including the Palace of Nations and the old town of Geneva, I could appreciate the charm of foreign cultures in the historical streets and picturesque buildings. The study tour also enabled me to establish deep friendships with students from sister universities and strengthened my sense of teamwork and ability.”

Zhu Shiyang

“This programme has been a valuable learning opportunity and a rare experience. Through site visits and guided tours, I have gained a more tangible understanding of the workings of the United Nations. I have felt the efforts and achievements of the United Nations in maintaining world peace and promoting development, while also recognizing the challenges and difficulties it faces in addressing global issues. This has made me more appreciative of peace, respectful of diversity and concerned about global affairs, and has fuelled my desire to contribute to world peace and development. Here, I have not only enjoyed the beauty of nature and architecture, and the richness of history and culture but have also gained a deeper understanding of the United Nations’ significant role and importance in today’s world. This experience has reinforced my belief that only through communication, cooperation, and collective efforts can we address global challenges and create a better future for all humanity.”

Feng Ze

“Through visits to the ITU, ICE, IFRC, and UNHCR, I have gained a deeper understanding of global cooperation, sustainable development, and humanitarianism. In the learning environment at the United Nations headquarters, I have experienced the charm of multiculturalism and international collaboration. Cross-cultural exchanges and cooperation not only enhance understanding between nations but also provide more insights and possibilities for addressing global challenges. Additionally, working with international organizations has underscored the importance of global cooperation and unity. Only through collective efforts can we tackle global challenges and achieve sustainable development and humanitarian goals. Furthermore, the experience of collaborating with team members to solve problems has highlighted the importance of teamwork and leadership development.”

Since the establishment of the QMES Student International Development Centre, there has been a concerted effort to broaden students’ international perspectives, actively responding to the school’s call to engage with international organizations and global governance. The focus has been on nurturing young leaders with a strong sense of patriotism and a global outlook, continually enhancing students’ global competence. The recent field exchange programme at the United Nations Geneva Headquarters provided students with an opportunity to understand international organizations, connect with global youth, and engage in dialogue with the world. It aimed to cultivate a sense of “global citizenship” among students, encouraging them to become conscientious youth ambassadors for fostering international friendship. They confidently voiced Chinese opinions and viewpoints on the international stage, showcasing the outstanding qualities of Chinese students and contributing their youthful wisdom and vigour to the creation of a better world.

Photo: Zhao Guangchao, Li Yuyang, Zhu Shiyang, Feng Ze

Edit: Song Jiayin

Translate: Shen Xinyi

Review: Cheng Yin