Schoolyear 2011/2012
“Together for a better world without war and poverty, with respect for fundamental human rights” This is the fundamental idea of the United Nations.
The UN is our only truly global and democratic arena and our strongest card in the struggle for a better world for all. A strong UN depends on active and supportive member nations, and conscious and engaged individuals that follow the work of the UN.
Goals of the UN major
- Insight in the role, possibilities and constraints of the UN
- Insight and engagement in the work of the UN
- International understanding and solidarity
Content
The main areas of the UN
- Peace and security
- Social and economic development
- Human rights
- Humanitarian affairs
- International law
Working method
The students conduct in-depth studies in the different areas based on interest, ability and, not the least, current events. There is a focus on participation, self motivation, presentation and discussion. The school and students include the perspectives of others through guest lecturers, film, participation in conferences and meetings, etc.
The working language is English
International experience
Studying UN-major you will get international experience that may be important if you want to work with such issues in the future. You will take part in and lead international seminars and conferences. You get thorough knowledge of the United Nations and how this organization works. As a student you also get to know our partner, United Nations Association. The UN-major gives a thorough insight to countries where the UN works. On the study-trip, the UN-major helds meetings with international organizations and other bodies that are important in the country they are visiting. As an example, last year's UN-major had meetings with the UN court for genocide in Rwanda. This provides unique knowledge and increased understanding of how these international organizations are working. UN-major also meets with the Norwegian embassies in the countries they travel to. And when the students come home from the study-trip they are working on with what they have experienced on the trip. Then convey the impressions and knowledge on a lecture tour around the schools and other institutions in Norway.
Study trip
The UN-major goes on a five week study trip. The destination is very much up to the students to decide. This year, the trip goes to India and Nepal. Last year, the study-trip went to Tanzania and Rwanda. The schoolyear 2012/2013 we have not yet decided where to go. We are also planning an additional trip to one of the UN-offices in Paris, Rome or Geneva. If you decide to be a student in the UN-major, you will be taking part in deciding where you will go.
