Students represent UGA at the United Nations General Assembly

The African Graduate Students Forum (AGSF) represented the University of Georgia at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City from September 25 to 27. The session was a historic gathering of global leaders, diplomats and advocates committed to shaping a better future for all.

UGA’s student representatives were AGSF President Nancy Alila and Vice President Daniel Bayah. Dr. John Mativo, Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Department of Workforce Education and Instructional Technology, connected them with the Kenya Diaspora Alliance, which then extended an invitation.

This year’s theme, “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations,” resonated with Alila as she reflected on her background. Growing up in Kenya as an orphan during a pivotal time for women’s rights in education, she felt that she missed out on a lot. Without parents, other family members, such as her uncle, supported and motivated her to overcome challenges and pursue her dreams. She saw the theme and thought of impoverished children in Kenya, who often believe a brighter future is unattainable.

 “They believe it’s impossible,” said Alila. “Finding myself in that space at UNGA I was like, ‘we are not being left behind.’”

Receiving her VIP Badge and having access to where the presidents were sitting was surreal for Alila.

“Oh, so I belong here,” said Alila. “It was the best feeling in the world, considering my background and where I come from and the work I put in.”

Alila’s resilience and accomplishments empower students from developing regions to take the knowledge and skills they acquire as graduate students here back to their home countries.

Alila and Bayah both highlighted the importance of student organizations, with UGA’s environment playing a key role in nurturing leadership skills. Alila was honored to give a talk at the “Trade with Africa: Bridging Opportunities for Sustainable Development” side event. She focused on how African students and emerging leaders could leverage trade partnerships and investment opportunities to drive sustainable development in Africa. She noted how student organizations like AGSF contribute to empowering graduate students to engage in global trade and governance discussions.

Bayah emphasized the need for greater youth involvement in leadership at national and international levels.

“We shared insights on how UGA provides a model that empowers students, particularly those from developing countries” he said, “to unleash their potential in management, leadership, trade, and investment.”

Organizations like AGSF serve as a cornerstone, providing mentorship, networking, and opportunities to engage in global policy discussions, such as the UNGA summit.

The 79th session of UNGA was a key experience for UGA student leaders, enhancing their understanding of the importance of student involvement in global issues. They returned committed to leveraging education, leadership, and governance for sustainable development, emphasizing the need for collaboration in governance and trade. Moving forward, the focus remains on uplifting students from diverse backgrounds and equipping them to create positive change locally and globally, ensuring that no one is left behind.

For more information about AGSF visit UGA’s Involvement Network or learn more about International Student Life at isl.uga.edu.

Story produced by Emily Adamo and Kirsten Brucker, Digital Marketing Assistants for the Division of Student Affairs.