S-SAARC conference at Ananda College

A simulated SAARC conference organised by the Colombo Ananda College Model United Nations Association (AMUNA) will be held at the ICTAD auditorium, Savusiripaya, Colombo on December 14 and 15. The conference on the theme 'An epic venture into the domain of diplomacy' will be attended by representatives of 25 leading schools and student delegations from India and the Maldives.

Master-in-charge Ananda College Model United Nations Association R. L. Ellawala said that during this conference, student delegates representing the seven SAARC countries address specific issues of current interests. Through debates and negotiations, student delegates attempt to resolve regional and international problems. They are expected to take part in these activities in a conciliatory manner to the fullest of their nation's interest. Thus, they would learn to embrace the spirit of SAARC charter.

S-SAARC conference provides students with an opportunity of role-playing diplomats involved in making decisions and conflict resolution.

At S-SAARC, student not only learn about the SAARC system but also find out about economic, social and environmental issues prevailing in today's world. Students learn to resolve these problems through negotiation and compromise. In order to do this they are expected to develop the skills of independent research, oratory, resolution writing and collaboration.

As students taking the role of international diplomats, they have to put their own views aside and embrace to the foreign policy of the nation, to which they have been assigned. Students also learn about the conduct of formal meetings and the use of parliamentary procedure.

Taking part in S-SAARC is both hard work and fun. All students who are looking forward to take part in S-SAARC from various schools are required to participate in training workshops, which will be held prior to the conference. During workshops students will learn about the organisation and functions of SAARC.