On March 26, the launching ceremony of the First Henan Provincial Global Competence Youth Talent Training Camp was held on the seventh floor of Sias Student Activity Center. Dr. Shawn Chen, President of the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA), and Founder and Chairman of Sias University, Mr. Aziel Goulandris, Secretary General of WFUNA, Prof. Lucy Lu, Provost and Vice President of Sias University, attended the ceremony. Representatives of relevant administrative departments, residential colleges, and nearly 1,000 students and teachers participated in the event.

In her speech, Professor Lu emphasized that amidst the genuine challenges posed by cross-cultural communication and the coordination of international affairs in the globalization process, it is a crucial mission for higher education to cultivate global competencies among young people. She mentioned that Sias and WFUNA have engaged in deep cooperation, dedicated to furnishing students with an international practice platform. This platform is aimed at assisting students in developing an international perspective and growing into talents with global competencies.

After the launching ceremony, student representative Hua Chenhao shared his practical experience of Model United Nations activities under the title of "My Life in Model UN." Mr. Aziel Goulandris then delivered an insightful lecture themed "Entering the UN," systematically dissecting the operational mechanics of international organizations and illustrating tangible avenues for youth to engage in global affairs. On behalf of Sias, Dr. Chen proudly presented Mr. Aziel Goulandris with a certificate of appointment as Visiting Professor, acknowledging his expertise and dedication to nurturing future global leaders.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Chen pointed out that the internationalization of education and the reform of education in the era of AI are the key to cultivating globally competent talents. He encouraged the students to enhance their intercultural communication skills through systematic learning to prepare themselves for future global challenges.

It is reported that the Camp, designed and instructed by the WFUNA, will be held at Sias from July 21 to 24, 2025. The Camp focuses on nurturing talents for international organizations and promoting global sustainable development. Upon successful completion, students will receive a certificate of completion issued by WFUNA, and exceptional campers will have the prestigious opportunity to visit the United Nations Headquarters for field studies.

Launch Ceremony of the First Henan Provincial Global Competence Youth Talent Training Camp

Prof. Lucy Lu, Provost and Vice President of Sias University, delivered a speech.

Mr. Aziel Goulandris, Secretary General of WFUNA, delivered a speech.

Dr. Chen presented Mr. Aziel Goulandris with a certificate of appointment as Visiting Professor.

Dr. Shawn Chen, President of the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA), and Founder and Chairman of Sias University, delivered a speech.