Students stand up for global issues at university freshers’ fairs

In their first major outreach event of the year, UNA Youth branches at universities across the country used their freshers’ fair to challenge fellow students to engage with global issues. Members of the 45 branch network used provocative statements to explore the contribution that young people can make to international affairs.  The reaction was huge with over 2,000 students pledging their involvement and joining this growing movement.  

Kicking off a year of campaigning

Freshers’ fair was just the start to a year of activities, campaigns and events.  UNA Youth will be at the heart of UNA-UK campaigns such as:

• 1for7Billion to get the best UN leader.
• Foreign policy manifesto - making the case for UK investment in the UN.
• Towards Zero - strengthening support for international nuclear non-proliferation.

UNA Youth’s new elected Youth Council welcomed the great start to their year in office.  Adam Badrawi, Youth President, said  “The fantastic response at freshers’ fairs demonstrates the hunger that students in the UK have for global issues.  This year I’ll be challenging every UNA Youth branch to get involved because we all have a responsibility to equip ourselves, mobilise our campuses and challenge our leaders.”   Everyone who signed up at their freshers’ fair will receive news updates, event invitations and calls to action.  Anyone studying at a UK university is welcome to register here.  

Recognising the hard work of youth branches

The huge effort that youth branches put into freshers’ fairs was recognised by awarding those who had made an outstanding contribution with the opportunity to meet former UK Ambassador to the UN, Sir Jeremy Greenstock. This prize was awarded to winners in three categories:

• Kingston University - social media outreach
• University College London - number of sign-ups
• Essex University- innovation of freshers’ fair stand

Winners have been invited to enjoy afternoon tea with Sir Jeremy in central London later this year.