Sanata Dharma university hosts 14th Global Leadership Program in Indonesia
Sanata Dharma University in Indonesia hosted the 14th Global Leadership Program (GLP) from August 12 to 18, 2024, focusing on the theme "Youth Empowerment in Intercultural Society: Towards a Rooted Global Citizenship."
The program aimed to equip young leaders with the knowledge and skills to navigate global issues while fostering intercultural understanding and rooted global citizenship.
The sub-themes explored during the event included “Youth and Lifestyle,” “Youth and Belief Systems,” and “Youth and Social Economy.” These topics provided a foundation for meaningful discussions on the role of youth in shaping society amid cultural diversity.
The program brought together over 50 participants, including students, chaperones, and GLP team members, from various universities across the Asia-Pacific region.
Participating institutions included Sanata Dharma University, Sophia University, Ateneo de Manila University, Fu Jen Catholic University, Sogang University, Polytechnic ATMI Surakarta, Ricci Hall from The University of Hong Kong, and Xavier Learning Community (XLC).
The Global Leadership Program, an annual initiative of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities—Asia Pacific (AJCU-AP), offers students a platform to engage in dialogue on pressing global issues affecting their home countries.
The program’s primary objective is to prepare students to become leaders with a global perspective and a commitment to social justice.
Participants engaged in a variety of activities designed to enhance their leadership abilities. These included university presentations, where delegates introduced their institutions and shared insights, fieldwork that offered hands-on exposure to local social issues, and cultural performances that highlighted the rich traditions of their home countries through dances, games, and songs.
The blend of intellectual exchange, cultural immersion, and collaborative learning cultivated an atmosphere of tolerance, participation, and action.
The program's holistic approach extended beyond addressing serious global issues. It also encouraged the formation of international networks and friendships, making the experience both transformative and enjoyable for the delegates.
In the previous year, the 13th Global Leadership Program was held in New Taipei City, Taiwan, under the theme "Our Blue Planet: Ocean & Sustainability," highlighting environmental challenges and sustainability efforts.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.