MGA student reflects on experience at UN Geneva

This summer, Omer Malikyar, a Master of Global Affairs (MGA) student at the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy, participated in the 62nd Graduate Study Programme (GSP) at the United Nations Office in Geneva. The prestigious program, known as the UN’s longest-running educational initiative, brought together 53 participants from 42 countries for a two-week intensive seminar on global diplomacy, cooperation, and governance. The GSP, now in its 62nd year, has trained over 3,000 young people from more than 110 countries since its inception. 

Reflecting on his experience, Malikyar emphasized how the GSP deepened his understanding of the UN and its role in tackling global challenges. "The program offered an unparalleled introduction to the UN system and the broader ecosystem of 'International Geneva,'" he said. "We had daily sessions with guest speakers from various UN agencies, which provided invaluable insights into how global diplomacy operates on a day-to-day basis." 

A key part of Malikyar’s academic journey has been the practical experience offered through the Master of Global Affairs (MGA) program. In addition to rigorous coursework, the MGA provides professional internships, capstone projects, and leadership opportunities, equipping students with the tools to make a global impact. Malikyar credits these experiences with helping him approach the GSP with a broader, solutions-oriented mindset. 

The 62nd edition of the Graduate Study Programme, held at the Palais des Nations from July 1-12, 2024, was themed "Summit of the Future: Challenges and Opportunities." Participants had the opportunity to engage with high-level UN officials, including Paul Ladd, Director of the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development, and Guy Ryder, UN Under-Secretary-General for Policy. Representatives from UN Women, the UN Human Rights Office, and the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs were also among the distinguished speakers who shared their expertise. "These interactions were invaluable," Malikyar noted, "as they gave us a comprehensive understanding of the UN’s role in promoting peace, security, human rights, and sustainable development across the globe." 

A major component of the program involved collaborative group work. Malikyar’s group focused on creating a global youth network under the theme Youth Shaping the Future of Science, Technology, and Education at AI for Good. "We developed the AI Youth Network, designed to empower young people worldwide to take an active role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence and its applications in education and science. It was a deeply collaborative process, drawing on the diverse perspectives of participants from across different regions and disciplines," Malikyar explained. 

"Our work was also documented in a report that is now part of the final publication at the UN Library and on the GSP website,"  

The GSP experience extended beyond the Palais des Nations. Participants took part in field trips, including a visit to the residence of the Swiss permanent representative to the UN. "The opportunity to network with diplomats and UN officials was one of the highlights of the program, showing just how essential relationships are in international diplomacy," he said. 

Malikyar expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the Munk School and the University of Toronto’s Centre for International Experience. "Their financial assistance and encouragement throughout the application process made this experience possible for me," he said. "This program has had a profound impact on my academic and professional development, and I’m eager to apply the lessons I've learned to my future studies and career." 

Looking ahead, Malikyar sees the GSP as a defining experience in his journey as a global affairs professional. "Participating in the GSP gave me a unique blend of academic learning, practical experience, and networking opportunities that I believe will shape my contributions to global diplomacy in the future. I feel more prepared than ever to take on the challenges that lie ahead," says Malikyar.