AFS India Newsletter | February 2023

THE IMPACT Newsletter

In this issue:

2 In Leadership: AFS India Board, read about the AFS India Board Member, Siddharth Singh

3 The contribution of our volunteers is noteworthy, check out the volunteering experience of the Mehta Family from Vadodara

4-5 JENESYS 2022 Program was concluded with 68 Indian participants visiting Japan for 8-Day program in January 2023

6-7 In Member School Stories, featuring the Regional Meeting of West Zone Schools near Mumbai

8-9 In Hosting Stories, get to know about the hosting experience of an exchange student in Nabha and the experience of a host mother in Ahmedabad

10-11 In Sending Stories, hear from Tanush & Naqiya who recently completed their program in Turkey

12 Check out what one of the YES Program participants is experiencing in USA

13 Exploring the diversity of India, North meets West; Read about the class exchange stories of 4 schools

14-15 In Member School Stories, read an article by Sona Matto, Principal, Children's Academy on teaching-learning methodology

16-17 Various ICL & Effect+ Workshops were conducted by AFS India in the Member Schools

18 Get inspired by Vishakha Desai, AFS Returnee of the 1960s and check out her recently published book

19 In AFS Advocacy, presenting views of Richa Parasher, GCC Qualified Facilitator on the effectiveness of the GCC Program

www.india.afs.org

LEADERSHIP

Siddharth Singh, Vice-Chairperson

Siddharth Singh is the Vice-Chair, AFS India Board. He is the Director of The Emerald Heights International School, Indore. Siddharth completed his education at the Stony Brook University, United States He was selected by Education

World magazine as one of the “Young Shining Stars of Indian Education” in 2017 and was felicitated at the ASMA India’s ‘Top 40 Under 40 Awards 2021’ for his contribution in the field of education.

Question 1: What are the main challenges you have encountered throughout your very diverse career, especially in relation to advancing global citizenship?

Global Citizenship refers to the belief that individuals are members of multiple, diverse, societies despite belonging to one. Promoting global citizenship in sustainable development allows us to embrace our social responsibility to act for the benefit of all societies, not just our own. I have as such not faced many challenges in advancing Global Citizenship at my school, as our students and their parents have been very accepting & ready to explore.

Question 2: How should education systems keep evolving around the world? What new trends are you seeing in global citizenship education (GCED)?

The education system around the world should follow the pillars of Global Citizenship Education. The students should be aware of the three domains of learning – cognitive, socio-emotional and behavioral The new trends in the GCED are putting emphasis on pro-social values and behavior which may be intergroup empathy, valuing diversity, social justice, environmental sustainability and responsibility to act.

Question 3: AFS convenes stakeholders across sectors to advocate for global citizenship education and includes global competence as a core 21st century skill. What should AFS India focus on to advance this movement in the coming years?

AFS should offer more opportunities for inter-cultural learning study abroad programs. This will help them in the acquisition of knowledge and skills that support the ability of learners to both understand the culture and interact with people from other cultures.

Question 4: AFS India planned to host an AFS Network meeting in October 2023 at New Delhi where various AFS Partners from across the world would be participating. How do you think AFS India can leverage this opportunity to further AFS’s mission in India?

AFS should leverage this opportunity by showcasing the diverse Indian culture to various AFS partners. This will help us in promoting India as a host country destination for study abroad programs. The local volunteers and schools should be invited to interact and explain the basic challenges faced by them at the grass root level. The guests can be shown a few more different parts of the country to overcome any apprehensions if they have about India.

VOLUNTEERS ARE

Sonal and Bankim Mehta, AFS Chapter - Vadodara

It was August 2008 when we attended our first-ever volunteer meeting at Baroda and were instantly inspired to become volunteers at the AFS Chapter in Vadodara. Time has flown since then…

AFS has given both of us so much that we can write a whole book on it. Apart from being volunteers, we are proud sending and hosting parents We have also been to different countries under volunteer exchange programs, taken many trainings and attended workshops.

Apart from being the active life-time volunteers, we both have worked as office bearers at our chapter. Sonal has been working as Hosting Coordinator for many years and I had been contributing as Finance Coordinator for years and currently as the Chapter President for last one year.

We have won many awards like best volunteer, best host family and best finance coordinator. The AFS impact in our lives is immense and ongoing as we are very lucky to have 10+ Sons & Daughters which makes us a very big family globally. In a true sense we can say ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ as we have extended family in various countries through AFS.

We are in touch with many students who were hosted in our home and in our AFS Chapter. And when they express their wish to visit us again that adds joy to our life. The bonds and relations that we build are for a lifetime. We tell people to experience it for the new bonds, new learnings and sharing of cultures. This way one can create peace in the world.

Mehta Family’s Hosting Journey…

SPONSORED

Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (JENESYS) 2022

Continuing with the friendship ties between India and Japan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Government of Japan, the JENESYS 2022 was started on 24 January 2023 for a 10-Day program in Japan with 68 Indian participants under the following four themes from 35 organizations in India.

• Science and Technology

• Japanese Language and Japanese culture A

• Japanese Language and Culture Exchange B

• Rugby- Sports Exchange

The program was a mark of the celebrations of the 70th Anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the two countries. The program was a venture to provide exposure to youth to the immense possibility of intercultural exchange and dialogue, commitment to peace, involvement of youth and envisioning the future together with sharing of technology, ideas, culture and beliefs. In addition, the program ended with a presentation by the participants on the future action plan where they highlighted their learning and how to take the learning to achieve a prosperous future. The role of youth, social media, government, non-governmental organizations, schools, education, animation and movies could be a bridge for Cultural, Technological & Ideological Exchange between the two countries.

I am extremely thankful to AFS, for not only giving me the opportunity to participate in JENESYS 2022 but also showing faith in me to represent the Indian contingent. It was an amazing experience to join the program, as I was able to explore more about Japanese culture and was also successful in conveying a message of love and friendship to students and local people in Japan Moreover, I experienced past Indo- Japan collaboration and friendship as well. I realized this when we visited places like Seigantoji, a temple built by an Indian monk. The most important learning for me through this program is - “Give your hands to serve and hearts to love.”

The JENESYS program impacted me in a way that I have become more interculturally sensitive I have learned the language of love and kindness in Japan, and it was a lifechanging experience. I would like to thank AFS Intercultural Programs, the Embassy of Japan and MOFA Japan for this wonderful learning opportunity that I will forever treasure in my heart.“

- Vandana Jain, Participant

-Sweadeeta Krishnatrya, Participant

MEMBER SCHOOLS

West Zone Member Schools Meet, 17 -19 February 2023

School leaders and teachers of 15 AFS Member Schools from West India gathered for this 3-day meeting to ideate and strategize on the opportunities for intercultural and global competence The meeting was hosted by Viraj Shri Ram Centennial School, Boisar between 17 -19 February 2023.

Sessions during the meet were focussed on:

National Education Policy of India

Child Safeguarding Curriculum (POCSO Act)

AFS Programs

Sharing Best Practices

Leadership & Design Thinking

Astronomy, Stargazing & Storytelling

Thought Fodder & World Cafe

The meeting amalgamated widespread cultures from Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. The participating students had the opportunity to engage in activities specially crafted for them This was an exciting opportunity for the participants to connect with new cultures, ideas and people in a supportive environment.

29 students, 15 Educators and 11 School Leaders along with the guest speakers participated.

List of ParticipatingSchools

S. No. School

1 Central Public School, Udaipur

2 Dosti Foundation School, Thane

3 Jindal Vidya Mandir, Ratnagiri

4 Jindal Vidya Mandir, Salav

5 Jindal Vidya Mandir, Vasind

6 L K Singhania Education Centre, Gotan

7 Mayo College Girls' School, Ajmer

8 Pragnya Bodhini High School, Mumbai

9 Rajaram Kakani Sahakar Vidya Mandir and Junior College, Nanded

10 Rishi Valmiki Eco School, Mumbai

11

Rockwoods School, Udaipur

12 Sanjay Ghodawat Internatinal School, Kolhapur

13 St. Mathews High School & Jr College, Mumbai

14 Venkateshwar Signature School, Raipur

15 Viraj Sri Ram Centennial School, Boisar

As shared by the Organizing Committee and Host School...

We at VSRCS completely echo what Mother Teresa said, “You have what I don’t, I have what you don’t, and together we can create magic..!”

It was a 3-day retreat for the participants of the meet at VSRCS. Hosting the West Zone Regional Meet of 2022-23 was a matter of pride and privilege for us. From the beginning, we ensured that these 3 days are worthwhile for the people spending their weekend

We all echoed the statement by Mr Jayant Lal when he said, 'As educators, let our focus be on not being popular but being effective!’

One of the highlighted sessions was an enriching panel discussion on NEP 2020 where the questions of why, how, and what of the policy were addressed. The panel included - Ms. Smitha Nair, an educator from Goenka Group of Schools, Ms Seema Shaikh, AFS Regional Head, West Zone and Mr Girish Dalvi, Educational Consultant, Dept of Education, South Australia

Another event that added glimmer to the meet was the astronomy session by Ms. Mumtaz and her team. More than the sky what enchanted us was the curiosities and au fait of the students about what lies beyond the skies. Their questions about supernovas, nebulas, star age, and Andromeda were rewarded with posters by the sky matrix.

The event was made more memorable by our young students who left no stone unturned to showcase the culture of Maharashtra via various dance forms like Lavani, Jogwa, Gondhal, Koli dance, Powada, etc. The Shiv Tandav Stotram sung by a young VSRCian on the occasion of Mahashivratri was an audio-visual treat for the audience.

Gratitude to all the coordinators, principals, and students who participated wholeheartedly. We are glad to play an instrumental role in being an abode where the bonds were formed under one roof with our diverse perspectives and designed a unified aim to march towards, with the newfound candor and camaraderie this meet gave us all!

HOSTING

Aphissara Chewprecha from Thailand is hosted in Punjab Public School Nabha, recently had a chance to participate in Delhi Excursion Trip with her schoolmates. Presenting a few glimpses shared by her...

“On 10 & 11 February, I’ve been granted the opportunity of a lifetime as an exchange student to witness cultural exchange on a journey to Delhi. Here in India, Arts is one of my favorite subjects. When I was informed that we would be going on an Arts excursion, I was thrilled. We first visited Rashtrapati Bhavan, Mughal Garden, and the museum complex. It was truly exhilarating to visit; such delightful and extremely tremendous places. I got to explore the glimpses of modern Indian history and background. Despite the tiresome hours on the road from Punjab to Delhi, once we reached the National Gallery of Modern Arts, I was truly intrigued by the entire exhibition portraying the culture, the early times of India, and the masterpieces from numerous great artists. At the end of the day, we had a brief look at places around Delhi - India Gate, Connaught Place, etc.

On the next day, we attended Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2023, which is acclaimed as the world's biggest crafts fair and participation of at least 20 countries and all the states of India. I had never imagined a better opportunity to be present at such a well-organized function full of culture and people from around the world. Sights of people from all around the world presenting their crafted works, traditional outfits, and cultural food exchanging diverse ways of life and smiles were exceedingly amusing I am exceptionally grateful to have once been a part of this memorable excursion and I believe that what I have exposed throughout the trip has shaped and made me an active global citizen more than ever. ”

Aphissara Chewprecha, AFSHost Student from Thailand,Year Program 2022-23

Hitiksha Soni from Ahmedabad Chapter is the host mother of Kacey Taylor on the YES Abroad Year Program 2022-23 from the USA. Hitiksha shares her recent volunteering experience of hosting an exchange student.

“Gujarat is known for its historical monuments, temples, natural grandeur, and festivals. There were several places we visited. The Adalaj Stepwell and Akshardham in Gandhinagar was a day trip arranged with close friends. The ancient stepwell was built in the 15th century and showcases the finest carving work in the region. We were mesmerized to see the royal ambience, engraved walls, and colossal architecture. After spending an hour at the stepwell, we went to Akshardham temple. We spent almost 4-5 hours watching the series of 3D exhibits, spreading the value of non-violence, courage, humility, honesty, and peace

Then, we went to Ambaj. We decided to go on a family trip to Ambai and stayed there for 3 days. Early in the morning, we climbed nearly 1000 steps to reach Gabbar in Ambaji. The next day, we visited the famous Kumbhariya Jain Mandir, a historical Jain temple of Shri Neminath Bhagavan, 13th century which is now a heritage center in Gujarat. The beautiful carvings are the main attraction of the temple.

The Holi festival was the highlight Khwahish and Kacey– our daughters, were excited to spend the day with colors and water Both woke up early and enjoyed the festival of colors with neighborhood friends. Later we also joined them.

We believe a family vacation, a regular break from routine is needed to relish our lives and strengthen the bond. We are creating beautiful memories for Kacey and ourselves to cherish for a lifetime.”

SENDING

AFS program was an eye-opening experience. I am Tanush Soni and I went to a short program in Türkiye from December 2022 to February 2023. This experience has changed the way I think about others, my family, and myself.

My host family was very helpful and most importantly they were very patient with me. They didn't know how to speak fluent English and this pushed me to learn Turkish as fast as possible. Once I was sick and I found the level of hospitality of the Turks as my host mom took a day off from her work just to ensure my safety at home

Throughout the program, we had volunteers assisting us with all our questions and they kept us engaged by organizing parties and gettogethers. I have made friends for life there, students from six different countries and not to forget - a lot of Turk friends. They helped me with everything, from learning the language to the best way of eating their food; walking with them in the beautiful streets of Adana.

I learnt something new every day; I realize that I was living

me to explore

Tanush Soni, AFS Alumnus, Turkey Short Term Program 2022-23

in a pond and there is a massive ocean waiting for

SENDING

NaqiyaHashmi, AFS Alumna, Turkey Short Term Program 2022-23

I participated in AFS program in Turkey from 23 December 2022 to 4 February 2023. I feel that participating in this program was one of the best decisions that I have ever made, as it was a really wonderful and life-changing experience. I learned a lot from this program and also learned about myself. Traveling by myself with an educational motive helped me unlock skills that I didn’t know I possessed During my stay in Turkey, I looked after myself and took charge of my own actions Though it took me and my host family a few days to understand each other, we had a really great time together and we bonded really well. They made me feel at home, we enjoyed our time together, we ate together, we went out together, we laughed together and the list just goes on.

I also did things that I had never done before such as taking a bus and traveling through a metro within the city. The best thing that I remember is the celebrations that brought me and my host family even closer to each other. We celebrated the new year together and exchanged gifts, danced and had a blast. On the Republic Day of India, my host family and I dressed up in Indian traditional clothes.

Now, I feel more confident, open-minded and social, and I see myself as a person who can make it through all the ups and downs that life may bring

SPONSORED

HansikaN. Meena, YES Program Participant in USA, 2022-23

Hanshika from Sri Aurobindo Mira Universal School,Madurai shares her learning...

All about my life in the U.S during the second semester

Our first family cruise to Mexico

In the month of January, I went on a 3- day cruise to Mexico, Ensenada with my host family and extended family. It was like a dream, being on a ship, sailing across the Pacific Ocean. We had so much fun, and I also got to experience a lot of different things. I got the opportunity to see Mexico and its totally different culture.

ACES Mid-year workshop in Atlanta, Georgia

In January, I also got an opportunity to visit Atlanta, Georgia. It was a 3-day Mid-Year Orientation. There were around 40 exchange students from all over the world. I made a lot of new friends. We visited Martin Luther King Jr Museum, CNN headquarters, the 1996 Olympic Park, walked on the important streets of the Civil Rights Movement, art museums and an escape room Jason Daniel's speech during a conference made a long-lasting impact on me

Better Understanding For a Better World (BUBW) Conference

I was selected for a leadership conference that was held virtually between 10 - 11 March 2023. The speakers gave wonderful speeches. There was a priest, a rabbi and an imam who gave us a great understanding of all three religions. It was a great platform to freely discuss important topics such as politics, religion, ethnicity and differences and ideate on solving many of the problems in the world as global citizens

It was great working with great minds from all over the world. I performed a poem in Tamil and translated it into English for the audience. I was also the student speaker in the program. I am proud to have the BUBW certificate!

DOMESTIC

Delhi Public School Srinagar & Shristi English Medium School, Anand

North Meets West

Between 19 to 26 February 2023, Shristi English Medium School (SEMS), Anand hosted 8 students and 1 teacher from Delhi Public School, Srinagar for AFS Domestic Class Exchange Program.

On 19 February 2023, the DPS team arrived at the Baroda Airport where our school teacher had gone to receive them & handed them over to host parents. Shristi School had arranged a special

assembly to welcome the DPS Students The Mathematics Origami session was arranged by our Maths expert – Ms Manjari Patil A one-day trip to Ahmedabad was arranged for them, in which they visited Gandhi Ashram, Atal Bridge, Step well of Adalaj & Kakariya Lake. The school arranged a local factory visit day for them, which included visits to a mathiya & papad factory at Uttarsanda and the Amul Dairy & Amul Chocolate Factory Plant at Mogar. In the evening a special dinner was organized by our school President Ms. Madhumita Jana. We also visited the Statue of Unity, Sardar Patel Memorial Hall, and also S.P. University, V. V. Nagar as an education Hub. We also had a cultural exchange program where we showed our culture through PPT and both the schools performed the typical folk dances of their regions.

This was a fantastic & learning program where DPS students carried a lifetime good experience. The students gained knowledge about how the two schools operate as well as the similarities and differences between North Indian & West Indian cultures.

Punjab Public School, Nabha & RKKGPS Jodhpur

The Punjab Public School hosted 15 girl students and 2 teacher escorts Ms Elizabeth Vincent and Mr Vipul Prajapat from Rajmata Krishna Kumari Girls’ Public School, Jodhpur, Rajasthan for a 6-Day Domestic Intercultural Exchange Program under the aegis of AFS India from 24 -29 January 2023

The visiting delegation attended a guest lecture by Mr Kamal Ali Khan, Incharge, Department of Athletics at Netaji Subhash National Institute of Sports (NSNIS), Patiala.

They took part in various workshops and visited local areas to make themselves abreast of Punjabi culture. In the Closing Ceremony, Headmaster Dr DC Sharma gave them mementos and wished them well in the future He complimented the AFS Coordinator, Mr Sumit Sharma, and the staff associated with the exchange for working tirelessly to make it a grand success

MEMBER SCHOOL

How can global competence and intercultural learning be more effectively fostered in school?

Global competence and intercultural learning are two major aspects of our rapidly globalizing world. Global competence is the ability to understand and interact effectively with people from different cultures, particularly in terms of cultural awareness, communication, and problem-solving. Intercultural learning is the process of acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to engage effectively with people from different cultures

Living in a global village, it is vital for students to understand different cultures and beliefs; and appreciate their diversity. It encourages them to be more tolerant and respectful toward others. Global competency and intercultural learning can be incorporated into our schools in numerous ways. Some of the effective methods are listed below:

Celebrate diverse cultures and perspectives

Schools may hold events, clubs, or activities that celebrate diversity and foster intercultural learning

Incorporate multiple perspectives in the classroom

Teachers can play a major role in creating an inclusive learning environment and encourage students to think critically about global issues.

Incorporate intercultural learning into the curriculum

The lesson plans can include topics related to global citizenship and cultures around the world.

Participate in Exchange Programs

Schools should create opportunities for students to have first-hand experience with different cultures and global issues. This could be possible through international exchange programs, virtual exchange programs and study abroad programs.

Children’s Academy,Thakur Complex,Mumbai

Ms. Sona Mattoo Dhingra Principal

AFS programs provide students and teachers the opportunity to experience diversity through its exchange programs, competitions based on international themes, and renowned speakers highlighting the importance of embracing diversity during regional and national meets

AFS programs help participants to collaborate with individuals of different cultures and develop the skills necessary to work effectively with people from different backgrounds.

Children’s Academy, Thakur Complex had wonderful experiences through various AFS Programs 2022-23 wherein our teachers and students took active participation in many competitions based on the theme‘embracing diversity’ . Our teachers also got a chance to interact with the educators from the USA. We also had the pleasure of hosting school activities for AFS Member Schools

In-Person Event CAMUN (Children’s Academy Model United Nations)

Online Event ‘The Green Kaleidoscope'

We were also a part of the Sir Cyril Talor Program which is a fully sponsored virtual Global Competence Certificate Program for educators across the world. Additionally, our pupils and teachers participated in a plethora of competitions, organized by other AFS Member Schools. The testimonials presented here will speak of the experiences of the educator and learners from Children’s Academy, Thakur Complex

I request all the school leaders to come together in our mission to foster a globally competent and intercultural society.

"Being a part of ‘International Foodie’ was an exciting and rewarding experience. This project allowed me to explore the culinary traditions of different countries while gaining an appreciation for their unique techniques."

"Serving as the Vice-Chair of AFS CAMUN was an exhilarating and enlightening experience where we deliberated over issues that are prevalent in the world. I was elated to see the members of my committee debate as world leaders coming up with strategic and practical solutions."

"As a delegate of ECOSOC, My experience at CAMUN was exuberant. It helped me tremendously to gain experience in global politics, hone my public speaking skills and develop an understanding of international relations and diplomacy."

Palaash

Jadav, Student (Vice-Chair DISEC-CAMUN)

Ms. Nalini Singh, Educator (Winning Participant, International Foodie)

Kshitika Ajgaonkar, Student (Delegate ECOSOC-CAMUN)

ICL & EFFECT+

ICL Training & Effect+ Workshop

AFS India provides Intercultural Learning (ICL) Training to its Member School Teachers. Pathways to Global Classrooms Training for Educators is one-of-a-kind training that helps promote intercultural dialogue and equips educators to prepare their students for living in diverse societies and working in a global environment. This is a significant & practical initiative to support our efforts to help globalize schools and make intercultural learning more accessible. Effect+ Global Citizenship Education Workshop for Students encourages them to be interculturally competent in an increasingly interconnected and globalized world. The workshop introduces them to the concept of changemaking and identifies a problem in their surrounding and bring a solution on the line of social impact. The workshop dives deeper into the importance of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals and how relevant they are to creating change at the local level

ICL Trainings & Effect+ Workshops conducted between January 2023- March 2023

Participants speak...

Everything changes, nothing is constant, but the only thing which remains constant over time is change itself The Virtual Effect+ Workshop organized by AFS India was an opportunity for us to step back to analyze and explore our thoughts about various issues and solutions related to SDGs. It was quite an interactive workshop that required us to ponder and work as individuals and as a group. The trainer apprised us of the significance of global citizenship in an engaging way, which has definitely motivated us to be the changemakers. Through this workshop, we have been enabled to see the bigger picture besides gathering the courage to change it too.

Sabreen Kaur Mann Student, Yadavindra Public School, Mohali

I loved the workshop as it helped me in understanding and looking at people from a different but positive perspective It made me realise that the world is one big community, even though each community may have its own pre-existing value system and customs. The training helped the educators to understand a student at a deeper level and motivated us to go beyond the curriculum to make him/her feel included The second learning was to encourage and bring awareness in the students to conserve energy by taking small steps and small steps taken together can bring considerable change The third learning was to never judge a person through outer appearance or through our preconceived notions.

Rita Sharma Teacher, Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior

ALUMNI

Vishakha Desai is our proud 1960s alumni and the Former Chairperson [2016 - 2021] of the Board of Trustees of AFS

International She joined the AFS International Board as a coopted member in 2013 after serving 22 years with the Asia Society and stepping down as President and Chief Executive Officer of Asia Society. Her professional work trajectory was directly inspired by the year she spent in Santa Barbara at the height of the Vietnam War, but she had not engaged in the AFS organization except for occasional annual contributions. The last eight years that she had spent on the Board and the last five as Chair, had been equally transformative for her. As a seasoned professional in International organizations and activities, she has learned many valuable lessons from engaging in such a complex global organization

She mentioned in her farewell message in 2021, ‘Of course, I have learned that there are no permanent goodbyes in the AFS Family’, as we always remain ready to lend a helping hand and get roped into volunteering for different functions. So, I look forward to helping when and where I can make a difference. Most importantly, I look forward to being part of a cheering squad as you continue to scale new heights as an organization committed to making the world a more cooperative and peaceful place. As we say in Gujarati, “Avjo” : not goodbye but the hope of seeing you again!’

In October 2022, she published a wonderful book, World as Family: A Journey of Multi-Rooted Belongings AFS is an important part of Vishakha’s life and an important part of the story she tells in her book “Once again, AFS has become pivotal in my global journey. As a Board member and as Chair since 2016, I have met thousands of returnees, host family members, and community volunteers, not just at AFS international meetings but also at gatherings in unlikely places like International conferences in Doha and Paris or a Board meeting in New York or at a Christmas party in Southold, Long Island. ”

VishakhaDesai, AFS Alumna 1966-67

IrinaBokova, former Director-General, of UNESCO, says about Vishakha's book: “Who am I? Where are my roots? Can I have multiple identities without betraying those roots? Vishakha Desai’s 'in-between' personal story of belonging as Indian, Asian, American, and human is passionate, honest, and moving. It is a powerful call for holding together the values of rooted global belonging without giving up on any part of one’s identity ”

VIRTUAL PROGRAM

Richa Parasher, GCC Qualified Facilitator,AFSChapter - Guwahati

Richa has been associated with AFS for years and creating an impact as a volunteer. Her contribution in promoting GCC Program for educators and teenagers is instrumental especially during the peak COVID-19 times. She has been facilitating virtual sessions for AFS India and AFS International.

“Global Competence Certificate course helps to develop the essential global life skills. It is more than just a certificate course. It teaches the skills which one can reinforce in all the life aspects. It gives some useful tools to suspend judgment, manage emotions, teach resilience, manage people etc.

Not just this it helps to navigate one's own culture as well as other cultures. As a result of this, one becomes more acceptable in life and can live in diverse settings.

Educators have to deal with the diverse group of children in the class and as an educator, for example, I apply the understanding of learning styles, global competency skills from the GCC course in my classroom to deal with children. I feel that my students are well behaved, mature, excel in academics and are always in the learning zone I highly recommend this program!

Upskill yourself and transfer the skills in your surroundings to make this world a better and beautiful place to live in.”

with the AFS Global Competence Certificate Program

Global competence is the “power skill” young people require to make their impact on an increasingly diverse world and global economy. Active global citizens must be prepared to communicate, collaborate and lead across differences to tackle the world’s greatest challenges and help more people benefit from a global economy

Partial Scholarship by AFS India for its volunteers, alumni or member schools and member institutes

To know more about the program, scan the QR code Write to india@afs.org, if you would like to register or have questions about the program.

AFS Mission

AFS InterculturalPrograms is an international, voluntary,nongovernmental, non-profit organizationthat provides interculturallearning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peacefulworld.

AFS Values

AFS enables people to act as responsible globalcitizens working for peace and understanding in a diverse world. It acknowledges that peace is a dynamic concept threatened by injustice, inequity, and intolerance.

AFS seeks to affirm faith in the dignityand worth of every human being and of all nations and cultures. It encourages respect for human rights and fundamentalfreedoms without distinctionas to race, sex, language, religion or social status.

AFS activities are based on our core values of dignity, respect for differences, harmony, sensitivityand tolerance. Global competence is the “power skill” young people require to make their impact on an increasingly diverse world.Active global citizens must be prepared to communicate, collaborate and lead across differences to tackle the world’s greatest challenges.

AFS India Vision

To be the leading organizationin interculturaleducationand experience that focuses on growing its programs for the underserved AFS

A-9, First Floor, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi 110019 India

www.india.afs.org