3rd liceo Visit with Ambassador Wennubst
Here are the reflections of one of the students on this stimulating visit:
Today we visited the FAO building and spoke with the Swiss Ambassador to the FAO, who explained to us how the system and the UN works in general. The Ambassador was extremely interesting because he discussed things from an analytical point of view and made many reflections on everything he said; for example he explained to us how a common thing, like wearing a tie or not, can be a subliminal message. He also told us how within the UN system every little gesture gets interpreted. We had the opportunity to simulate a debate, where everyone represented a role and, with the help of a facilitator, we had to reach a compromise. Two members of the staff from the Committee on World Food Security CFS (https://www.fao.org/cfs/en/) then told us about their work and concrete experiences. Finally we visited the terrace, which had a wonderful view.
Luigi
Other comments from the class:
I liked the trip to the FAO because I learned a lot of things in an indirect way; it was fun and enjoyable because Ambassador Wunnbst was very charismatic and asked a lot of questions.
Edoardo
What made the visit so interesting is that we did not just have to listen, but also to apply what we were told, for example, about how a negotiation works. In fact, we participated in a debate, which meant that each of us received a specific role and an opinion that they had to defend about a modern topic.
Mattia
It was interesting learning about the structure of the United Nations and about how you can find compromises between so many different countries and cultures. I liked learning about the different strategies of winning a debate.
Luis
We worked in the “India room”, which was beautifully decorated with typical Indian elements, and had an amazing, intricately carved wooden door.
Arturo, Eliel