This interview features Thuy Linh, a dedicated academic who played a pivotal role in organizing DEN’s inaugural international students’ conference in December 2024. Her efforts were instrumental in bringing together students to share their diverse experiences and perspectives. Looking ahead, Linh will be accompanying two students to DEN’s eighth international students’ conference, which will be...
Category: Global Engagement
A trip from Hanoi to London: Studying Knowledge, Culture, and Sustainability
My name is Vũ Hương Thảo, I am a fourth-year student of Development Studies at Hanoi University. This May, I will have the incredible opportunity to attend the Eighth International Student Conference at the University of Westminster in London. It will be my first time to leave the country and I am beyond myself with...
A letter from the perspective of a soldier or civilian on V-J Day
August 15, 1945 To My Dearest Eleanor, Today, the war is over. I write to you from a ship anchored in Tokyo Bay, where we have just witnessed the signing of Japan’s surrender. The deck buzzes with exhausted relief, cheers breaking out between the solemn silences. It should feel like a victory, and in some...
Vietnam Unveiled: A Journey Through Resilience, Education, and Sustainability
The past two weeks have been an exhilarating deep dive into the heart of Vietnam, a country rich in history, vibrant culture, and a rapidly evolving education system. These sessions have provided a solid foundation as we prepare for our upcoming field trip, offering insights into the nation’s resilience, progress, and commitment to sustainability. A...
A Journey of Discovery: Unveiling Istanbul’s Charm
Months ago, while casually browsing through photos of Istanbul’s mesmerising tourist attractions, I dreamed of experiencing the culture and charm of this iconic city. Little did I know that this dream would soon turn into reality. Thanks to the Engaging with Contemporary Issues in Turkey (ECIT) program organised by the University of Westminster, I had...
Silenced Voices: Indigenous Communities in Peru
Peru is home to 55 indigenous communities that reside in various locations such as the Andes and remote areas of the jungle. Interestingly, these communities use 48 different words to say ‘Hello’. Despite their unique culture and traditional practices, these communities are often portrayed in advertisements to attract tourists. However, it remains unclear whether the...
An Italian-Ghanaian Story of Akan Culture
As a girl with Italian-Ghanaian heritage growing up in Europe, I have experienced first-hand the harmful stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding Africa. It’s disheartening to see how many people are uneducated about the continent’s rich cultural history and how media coverage often perpetuates negative narratives that focus on slavery and pain. However, it’s important to recognise...
Model United Nations (MUN)
What is Model UN? Model UN is a comprehensive educational program that offers students an opportunity to experience the United Nations and learn about diplomacy, international relations, and global awareness. Normally, high school or university students participate in MUN by role-playing as delegates to the United Nations and simulating UN committees. These conferences are organised...
Politics and Development in the Middle East: Navigating Through Different Sessions
Interestingly, researchers have looked into the specific behaviours of individuals through a series of surveys to identify how different religious upbringings, habitual religious activity, and the dynamic of the surrounding community can influence an individual and society as a whole. Understanding the influences one’s upbringing and lifestyle can have towards one’s view on life and...
Unveiling Boundless Horizons: My Unforge5able Journey at the AFS Intercultural Youth Assembly in New York City
New York City, known for being the city that never sleeps, showcases an extraordinary blend of human ingenuity and limitless energy. Its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and diverse cultural landscape serve as a testament to the marvels of modern urban living. Little did I know, an enlightening journey awaited me at the AFS Intercultural Youth...
Imran Khan’s Arrest: An Unjustifiable Act
Pakistan’s former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, a former cricketer-turned-politician, was recently arrested in questionable and unclear circumstances, prompting intense, widespread debate and criticism. This blog aims to shed light on the reasons behind his arrest and why it was fundamentally wrong. The Arrest On a pivotal day, while participating in a nonviolent demonstration against purported...
Thailand’s political dysfunction under Prayut-Chan-o-Cha
Hope and progression rarely describe Thai politics; after countless coup d’états and junta governments, Thailand’s most recent constitution ended liberal democracy. After five years of junta regime, the election with its new rules and regulations was explicitly crafted for a military-backed win. However, not even after a full term in government, the once-guaranteed electoral success...
