A teacher’s reflection on the SOC-ENVI Kasetsart International Summer School 2026. By Dr Farhang Morady · Director, Democratic Education Network, University of Westminster. Distinguished Scholar, Kasetsart University. Caption: The Kasetsart Summer School cohort, Faculty of Social Sciences, July 2026. I delivered three lectures over the fortnight in Bangkok and read ten reflections when the students...
Category: Visits and Partnerships
Weaving the Threads of Hellos
A reflection on language, listening, and what makes change take root, from the SOC-ENVI International Summer School 2026. By Adinda Avrora · IPB University, Indonesia. The SOC-ENVI International Summer School 2026 was hosted by the Faculty of Social Sciences at Kasetsart University, Bangkok, in partnership with the Democratic Education Network at the University of Westminster,...
Before Departure: A Branch Reaching Beyond the Tree
There is a saying that a name can reflect a person’s characteristics. My name is Tran Ha Chi, and Chi signifies a small branch of a family tree. Knowing that I am a branch connected to a greater whole has given me a deep sense of belonging, and the heart of an empath. Growing up,...
Post Uzbekistan Blog – Ariadna
Exploration. Growth. Confidence. Global. Friendship. These are my takeaways from the incredible trip to Uzbekistan for the Tashkent International Model United Nations Conference (TIMUN 2026). Although the lack of sleep and the new environment required adaptation and resilience, it was a fun and special experience thanks to the Westminster International University of Tashkent (WIUT) Students...
When The World Fits In One Room
And Other Things London Taught Me This year, I had the opportunity to attend the DEN Conference in London, invited by Dr Farhang Morady following the publication of my article on sustainable energy in DEN’s annual student book. I travelled alongside a group of SDG course winners from Westminster International University in Tashkent — we...
Fears, Friendships and First Impressions: My DEN Experience
Before travelling to the UK for the conference, I felt both excited and nervous. It was my first time visiting the UK, and although I looked forward to the experience, I was also worried about stepping into an unfamiliar international environment. In Thailand, I had previously participated in several Model United Nations (MUN) conferences, so...
Elephant Shirts and Open Hearts: A Thai Student at the DEN Conference
Attending the 9th DEN International Student Conference in London was an amazing experience. The overall atmosphere was incredibly friendly and welcoming. Before the official sessions started, we were just university students from different parts of the world, chatting, laughing, and having a lot of fun together. However, as soon as it was time for the...
Nerves, Growth, and the Power of Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone
Last Friday, Chukwuemeka Ezenwa and I had the wonderful opportunity to present at the Democratic Education Network (DEN) International Students Conference at the University of Westminster. Our presentation explored the dangers of Artificial Intelligence, a topic that feels more urgent and relevant with every passing day. Being part of this experience was both exciting and...
Where do I get my knowledge from?
My school is where I learn the most, socialising, learning how to communicate through different languages, basic education and knowledge, for example, Maths, English and Science. Without school, I doubt I would be this confident. I build my confidence with different people and learn how to behave around those I am surrounded by. I learn...
