Crossing Borders: Thursina Students Interact with the World in AYIMUN, Thailand
As the female students fight, male students delegations from Thursina International Islamic Boarding School (IIBS) thrive in the Aspiring Youth Model United Nations (AYIMUN), Thailand. There are eleven male students, consisting of six students from Junior High School (SMP) and five from Senior High School (SMA). They represented Indonesian best youth in the international arena, playing an active role in the simulation of United Nations (UN) session.
Before leaving for Thailand, the students had undergone intensive preparation for months. Ustadz Bayu Cakra Buana, M.Pd., Coordinator of Discipline (SA Team) of Male Campus of Thursina IIBS said, the training focused on strengthening public speaking skills through various activities, such as return possession, performance training, speech, and mini debates. "We directed their preparation mostly on speaking aspect since it is the main provision in open global forum alike," he said.
Based on previous experience, students participating in AYIMUN have above average capabilities, including English language skill. They progressively demonstrate their talents in preparation process to perform on AYIMUN, promoting peace and diplomacy from islamic boarding school students.
In addition, the value of RECORDING (Religious, Caring, Open-Minded, Inspiring) remains the main foundation of students on everywhere they step. Ustadz Bayu explained that performing prayers and worship in a non-Muslim country requires students to be disciplined with time, considering on tight schedule of the event. They would become leaders with noble character, open to the development of times, but remain adhere to their faith.
Personal approach is not a big challenge. Each student has a different character to approach personally, and the mentor role is to remind them for caring each other. Those experienced in competitions can guide junior delegates. "The older ones protect, the younger ones respect each other. It is how a culture of mutual support and guidance is created," he explained.
AYIMUN is a significant opportunity for students to advance. They are able to make friends with other teams from various countries, while gaining knowledge and experience strengthening their confidence. "The involvement has built valuable network in pursuing career later, spreading religious values, and making proud of their family, nation, and country," closed Ustadz Bayu. (sls/lil)