Al Salamu Alaikum, together we have it all… RSIC2014
Posted: 06 August 2018
Host school
Sanskaar Valley School, India and King’s Academy, Jordan
Date
October 2014
Theme
“We may not have it all together but together we have it all” and “Al Salamu Alaikum” or “Peace Be With You”
Type:
Round Square International Conference
Logo
About
The 2014 Round Square International Conference was jointly hosted by Sanskaar Valley School in India and King’s Academy in Jordan.
At Sanskaar Valley School
At Sanskaar Valley School the conference, engaged students from schools around the world in debates and discussions on issues of global importance including the role of government in the world’s largest democracy. The theme ‘We may not have it all together but together we have it all’ and official logo designed by Sanskaar Valley School student Mansi Neekhra reflected this.
Consistent with the Round Square ethos of personal development and challenge through the ‘IDEALS’, the five day programme included adventure and service days, key note speakers, discussion sessions and cultural and social events and activities.
Sanskaar Valley School offered visiting schools an immersive experience to Indian culture; with vibrant celebrations, traditional dancing, national cuisine, volunteering in local orphanages and senior citizen centres and exploring Sanchi – the oldest stone Buddhist temple and monasteries. “I think that’s the beauty of a Round Square trip: to experience someone else’s culture through their eyes,” said Beulah, student from Cobham Hall, England.
“This Round Square Conference has been wonderful, warm and colourful.” Agrees the Headteacher from St. George’s Grammar School, South Africa.
Aamir Khan, a renowned film director, screenwriter, actor, humanitarian and one of Time’s 100 most influential people in 2013, opened the conference on the subject of leadership and how celebrities can play a positive role in generating social change.
Meanwhile journalist, author and news anchor, Sagarika Ghose, spoke of change and progress in her country, saying, “I believe change is a must in India today, at all levels of life, at the level of the family, at the level of society, at level of social relations, at the level of gender justice. And what better way to create change than by collective action?”
In group Barraza sessions, students discussed the impact of the guest speakers had on them as individuals, and how they could relate their message to their own lives. It was not only a fun conference, but a great learning opportunity as well.
Students from Westfield School for Girls, England agreed their trip was “a humbling, yet inspirational and life-changing experience.”
At King’s Academy
The theme “Al Salamu Alaikum” or “Peace Be With You” allowed students not only to understand more about the Middle East, but also to talk with their peers about complicated issues such as land disputes, extremism, refugee pressure, and lack of water and other natural resources. “The fact that this conference was situated in Jordan, surrounded by many major, ongoing conflicts…provided a sense of urgency, an overwhelming feeling of responsibility that you can’t just simply push away.” Describes Jeffrey, student. The conference speakers were confronting and inspirational giving delegates substance the further discussions in Barraza groups throughout the conference. Over 500 delegates from around the world have taken away a greater insight into cultural, social and political issues that surround the world today, with many new friendships were forged along the way.
23 year old Shabana Basij-Rasikh spoke passionately about her experiences of growing up in Afghanistan and how she has now founded a boarding school for Afghani girls. “The work that Shabana has done has inspired all of us,” explains Jessica and Sabrina from Lower Canada College, Montréal “her selflessness and motivation to give Afghanistan girls an education is incredible. We plan to continue her efforts to raise awareness and funds for SOLA and motivate the LCC students to get involved.”
During their stay, students were able to explore the ancient Greco-Roman city of Jerash and the ancient city of Petra and were able to swim in the Dead Sea “An incredible and unforgettable day” describes Mr Bary from Cate School in California. Students participated in service projects and helped to plant trees. “We were told along the way we’d be painting a home for a small family.” Reflects Nate also from Cate School in California “We took shifts applying coats of paint in the boiling sun, and we were rewarded with a job well done and with some Jordanian tea with the family. When we were finished, the father of the house expressed his thanks and wanted us to tell others at our schools and countries that Jordanian people and Arab people as a whole are hospitable and welcoming, so I’m sharing his words with you. It was certainly true in his case.” Local culture was celebrated with an International dinner and cultural evening and special flag ceremonies at the beginning and end of the conference.