A Special Lunar New Year Message from the United Nations

This winter, seven medical students from Tianjin University traveled to Geneva, Switzerland, where they visited the United Nations and several major international organizations. From participating in a Model UN Conference to engaging in discussions about global health and sustainability, the students showcased their global vision and sense of responsibility. As part of their journey, they also collaborated with international officials to send a Lunar New Year message, marking a special tribute to Tianjin University’s 130th anniversary.

Debating Global Issues at the Model UN

At the Model United Nations Conference, the students represented various countries to discuss pressing international issues, including biodiversity and environmental protection, the green circular economy, energy technology transformation, and artificial intelligence in education.

Acting as diplomats, the students debated and negotiated policies from the perspectives of their assigned countries. Through collaboration and dialogue, they developed actionable policy recommendations and solutions, honing their teamwork and strategic thinking skills while gaining a deeper appreciation of global challenges.

Li Xinghan, a 2024 undergraduate student, shared his experience: “Standing on the United Nations stage and fully immersing myself in the Model UN Conference gave me a profound sense of responsibility. I realized that international affairs are not as distant from us as they seem. As a young person in this era, I feel it’s my duty to tell China’s story and contribute to global governance with Chinese perspectives.”

Exploring Global Health at the WHO

The students also visited the World Health Organization (WHO), where they engaged in discussions on global health development and the future of digital health systems. They explored how technology and innovation are reshaping health solutions worldwide.

In addition, the students toured other international organizations, including UNICEF, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. These visits gave them a first-hand understanding of how international organizations operate and how they contribute to global governance.

Sun Yi, a 2023 master's student, reflected on the experience: “Visiting the United Nations and WHO made me realize that solving global health challenges requires cutting-edge technological solutions. The integration of health big data and brain-computer interface technologies in precision medicine is the way forward. As a medical student at Tianjin University, I am committed to our mission of improving people’s health and contributing to the future of global healthcare.”

Preparing for the Future with a Global Perspective

This program is part of Tianjin University’s "New-Generation Global Competence Development Initiative," organized in collaboration with the China Education Association for International Exchange. Each year, outstanding students are selected to participate in international study and practice programs, helping them develop a global perspective and learn how to shoulder responsibilities in an increasingly interconnected world.

Reflecting on the experience, Li Xinghan added: “When youth thrive, a nation thrives. When youth are strong, a nation is strong. As part of this new generation, I’m inspired to work toward the great dream of national rejuvenation while enhancing my global competence. Personal growth is deeply connected to national development and international cooperation.”

A Lunar New Year Blessing from Geneva

As the program concluded, the students and faculty recorded a special Lunar New Year greeting with international officials.

“This experience not only helped us understand the vital role of the United Nations and other international organizations, but it also reinforced our sense of responsibility as students of Tianjin University,” said Sun Yi.

By Eva Yin