MUSCAT: High School students from ABA Oman International School took part in the prestigious Global Citizen Diploma (GCD) Up 2025 Conference, held at Nanjing International School in China. The week-long event brought together students and educators from around the world including Sydney, Muscat, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Hawaii, and São Paulo to explore critical global themes such as Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (JEDI) as well as intercultural learning and global citizenship.

ABA officially joined the Global Citizen Diploma Consortium in the 2024–25 academic year, becoming the first school in the Middle East authorised to offer the GCD. This milestone highlights ABA’s dedication to recognising and fostering student growth beyond traditional academic achievements.

“Our vision is to empower students to grow in confidence and be recognised for who they truly are,” said Mr Simon Walker, Assistant Head of School and High School Principal. “The Global Citizen Diploma aligns seamlessly with our mission to foster intercultural understanding, inclusion, and global citizenship. The educational value of this experience cannot be overstated. Our students returned with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for diverse perspectives, which are essential qualities for success in today’s interconnected world.”

During the conference, ABA students participated in design thinking challenges focused on real-world issues affecting school communities, such as student wellbeing and inclusion. Working in international teams, they developed innovative, practical solutions to bring back and implement at ABA, aiming to enhance the student experience on campus.

“The Global Citizen Diploma gives students a meaningful framework to reflect on who they are and how they contribute to the world around them,” said Edwin Nast, faculty coordinator. “It is not just about what students achieve academically, but how they grow as individuals – through service, leadership, intercultural understanding and advocacy. Seeing our students engage so thoughtfully with global issues and return with real ideas to enhance our school community has been incredibly inspiring.”

In addition to the academic sessions, students immersed themselves in Chinese culture through visits to iconic landmarks such as the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the Ming Tombs, and Fuzimiao. Activities such as dragon boating, film discussions, and cultural exchanges further enriched their understanding of global citizenship and intercultural awareness.

“I learnt so much about different cultures and perspectives,” shared Elvira, one of the participating students. “Collaborating with peers from around the world on real issues helped me grow not just as a student, but as a global citizen.”

ABA’s participation in the GCD Up 2025 Conference underscores the school’s holistic approach to education, prioritising student voice, intercultural dialogue, and inclusive values. By empowering students to think critically, act ethically, and lead responsibly both locally and globally, ABA continues to prepare learners for a rapidly changing world.

ABA Oman International School is Muscat’s leading International Baccalaureate (IB) School, offering a full IB continuum from Early Childhood to the Diploma Programme. Established in 1987, ABA is renowned for academic excellence, innovation, and a deep commitment to sustainability, service learning, and global citizenship. With a diverse student body representing 65 nationalities, the school fosters an inclusive community rooted in the values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), empowering students to thrive in a complex world and make a meaningful difference. To discover The ABA Way, visit www.abaoman.org