“The students said the experience was ‘eye-opening.’ For us adults, it should be ‘ear-opening….’ We should listen to what they have to say.” Maria D’Aprile, Head of Liaison and Protocol, UNGSC.
Nineteen students from the European High School in Brindisi, Italy, dedicated three weeks of their summer holiday to accompany experts across the United Nations Global Service Centre (UNGSC) for the “Learning by Experience” programme.
Inspired by the innovative projects and working methods they witnessed at UNGSC, they formulated actionable proposals, adapted to the academic context under the umbrella theme “The School I Want:”
- Apply UNGSC’s Field Remote Infrastructure Monitoring system to track school energy and water consumption.
- Install photovoltaic panels to allow the school to run on renewable energy.
- Use 3D printers for teaching and learning.
- Install differentiated waste bins to improve recycling.
- Install dual-flushing system on toilets to save water and cost.
- Develop ID badges for school entry.
- Develop a catalogue of school services for students/faculty.
- Meet with universities and professionals to inform student choices.
- Hold student “town halls” to voice concerns.
- Teach first-aid and fire safety to students/faculty and make first-aid kits widely available.
- Implement a student-led virtual ICT support desk.
- Develop a central app for administrative needs (requesting diplomas etc.)
- Increase intercultural trips.
- Install cafeteria meal booking system and pay-by-credit.
They also issued recommendations to UNGSC, namely to enhance Base accessibility with walking and bicycle paths, and better connections to the airport and city center.
Reflecting on their experience, students noted, “Don’t be surprised, if in September, the school will be full of revolutionary students. We have been truly inspired.”
UNGSC thanks the students for their dedication and for inspiring staff to step back and recognize the vast applications and implications of the work we do every day.
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