THE SECONDARY SCHOOLS GLOBAL CHALLENGE

The CGS Secondary Schools Global Challenge is an exciting initiative in its second year, developed in collaboration with the Australian National University's (ANU) Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs. The simulation engages students from the Canberra region in pressing global issues, acting as state and non-state actors in evolving negotiations throughout the day.

‘The Secondary Schools Global Challenge (SSGC) was a fantastic opportunity that allowed us to develop our negotiation and diplomacy skills. Each participating school represented a global actor connected to the Asia Pacific with the aim of negotiating a 'Pacific Statement on the Global Climate Crisis'.

At the beginning of the day, ANU academics drew on their extensive experience in global politics, international relations and Asia-Pacific affairs by giving insightful presentations on negotiation and diplomacy. From this, I learned the importance of establishing common ground between parties and the fundamental role teamwork plays in negotiation. ANU staff also taught us more about the effect climate change is having on Pacific cultural cohesion and the powerful role non-government organisations play in achieving change. I found this highly relevant in helping us understand how to best represent our different global actors.

Acting in the role of Samoa, we then participated in a policy simulation for the remainder of the day, working together to form a position statement and alliances based on our country brief. We discussed the effects of climate change on vulnerable Pacific Island nations like Samoa and the role regional powers play in mitigating them. My highlight of the day was the second half of the simulation, where the global actors had to respond to a mock environmental crisis in Papua New Guinea and collaborate with other like-minded students throughout the day.

Our team did exceptionally well, coming second overall and was commended for our ingenuity and respectful negotiations.

Thank you to Ms Lindsey Reid for helping us prepare for the challenge, the School, and the ANU for organising such an enriching and engaging event!’

– Samantha Henry, Year 10