Doha, April 23 (QNA) - Awsaj Academy, part of Qatar Foundation's (QF) Pre-University Education (PUE), concluded its first Model United Nations (MUN) conference, held over two days at the academy's campus under the theme: "Building Inclusive and Sustainable Communities: Empowering Education for All."

The conference reflected QF's commitment to empowering youth through dialogue-based platforms that foster leadership and critical thinking skills. A total of 180 students participated, including 30 from Awsaj Academy and 150 from 14 schools within and beyond QF. The event offered a valuable opportunity to explore and engage with global issues.

It aimed to enhance students' leadership, public speaking, and problem-solving abilities through discussions on major global challenges. The experience promoted dialogue, diplomacy, and global awareness, preparing students to help shape more inclusive and sustainable communities.

Mark David Hughes, Executive Director of Special Schools and Inclusive Education at QF, said: "This conference is a powerful platform that engages students in key global issues, especially those linked to the UN's goals. It gives them a voice in shaping the dialogue around the future of our communities.

Bringing together students and schools in one space reflects QF's strong commitment to supporting youth and fostering meaningful dialogue. It helps raise their awareness and empowers them to take on future leadership roles."

Hughes also noted that Education City is an ideal venue for such conferences, combining academic, research, and community elements, and said: "It is not only a hub for advanced learning, but also a space for intercultural dialogue and knowledge exchange."

"The conference focused on developing teamwork skills among youth and instilling in them a sense of their role as future changemakers. I hope the students left the conference feeling inspired and motivated to continue engaging in this kind of collaboration and dialogue.

Over six weeks, students built real communication skills and formed friendships across cultures, broadening their perspectives and enhancing their ability to engage with others."

"At the heart of this experience are connection, dialogue, shared thinking, and the exchange of ideas, key pillars in preparing a conscious generation capable of leading and making a difference." (QNA)