Ryan students explore Diplomacy - prepare to become Future World Leaders

Students of Xavier's and Ryan International Schools were amongst the 450 international youth leaders who participated in the Presidential Classroom's Future World Leaders Summit from July 22 - 29, 2006, in Washington, D.C. The students, from over 26 nations which included Taiwan, Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, Honduras, alongwith other various countries, spent the week discussing issues in international relations, diplomacy and the world economy.

Students attended seminars throughout the week by the eminent speakers such as Prince Turki Al-Faisal, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United States of America who delivered a Keynote Address on Current State of World Affairs, Mr. Mark A. Pekala, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of European & Eurasian Affairs, U.S. Department of State who addressed on the Role of Diplomacy and the speakers like Gretchen Wallace, Founder & President, Global Grassroots, Denis G. Antoine, Ambassador of Grenada to the United States of America & Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States, Retired Rep. Mickey Edwards, R-Okla, Maya Brahmam, Head of the Speakers Bureau, World Bank and Erika Eckstut, Holocaust Survivor.

The Summit also included discussions on international topics at a plenary session where the young leaders formed and voted upon resolutions. These resolutions focused on such issues as human rights, arms control and terrorism. Students enjoyed taking part in the World Trade Game, visited different Embassies, Holocaust Museum and interacted with Mr. Gautam Bambavale, the Officer for Political Affairs at the Indian Embassy.

The young Indian students made a lasting impression on the hearts of the global participants with their beautiful country presentation. It was a proud moment for the Ryan Group when out of 5 speakers nominated for the banquet Ms. Neetika Sharma of Ryan International School, Ghaziabad was selected to be the Speaker at the Graduation Banquet. Overall a enjoyable week - once in a lifetime experience. The students have returned after their 8-day stupendous experience equipped with first-hand knowledge of moulding themselves as better leaders of tomorrow.