American University Of Antigua Hosts Crucial Conference On Sustainability
Photo: From Left: High Commissioner of India Dr. Amit Telang, Vice Minister, Ministry of External Affairs of India Pawan Kumar, Consul to Antigua and Barbuda Vijay Tewani, along with Neal Simon and Vernon Solomon.
India-West Staff Reporter
LOS ANGELES, CA – In a landmark event underscoring its commitment to global sustainability and education, Antigua and Barbuda recently hosted the United Nations’ Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) at the American University of Antigua (AUA) campus.
The event took place in their 1,200-seat, state-of-the-art convention center from May 27 to May 30 under the theme “Charting the Course Towards Resilient Prosperity.”
The conference brought together over 5,000 registered delegates, including world leaders, multilateral organizations, academia, the private sector, non-profits, and community and advocacy groups to address the pressing challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
The event began with a flag-raising ceremony. Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, remarked, “The United Nations flag is a symbol of peace, unity, and hope for a brighter future. When we raise the flag here in Saint John’s, we are signaling that the world stands in solidarity with small island developing states from across the globe. Member States, the UN system, civil society, businesses, and people of all generations and regions are here together because we are committed to a sustainable future for SIDS.”
The ceremony, marked by a spirit of cooperation and hope, signified a pivotal moment for AUA as it served as the venue for this globally significant event. It represented a unique opportunity for AUA to be at the forefront of international efforts supporting resilient prosperity in small island nations, showcasing the critical role of education and academia in driving positive change.
The opening ceremony also featured a vibrant cultural display celebrating the rich heritage of Antigua and Barbuda and the resilience of SIDS communities worldwide. The ceremony underscored the urgency of the conference’s mission and set a collaborative tone for the discussions ahead. AUA’s campus provided the platform for critical dialogue on sustainable development, climate change, and socio-economic challenges.
It also highlighted AUA’s role as a beacon of innovation and leadership in education. The University’s involvement in this global event reflected its dedication to fostering an environment where learning and action converge to address the world’s most pressing issues.
AUA is a fully accredited international medical school and awards degrees after students complete two and a half years of pre-clinical sciences curriculum on the island of Antigua, followed by two years of clinical rotations in the United States and Canada.
