F12 Students Attend Web Summit 2024

15 Novembro 2024

Artigos de opinião

F12 Students Attend Web Summit 2024: Embracing Innovation and Shaping the Future

 

To be tomorrow's generation of critical thinkers, innovators, and change-makers, our students must be prepared for an increasingly digital and interconnected world. With this goal in mind, our Class of 2025 embarked on a transformative journey to Lisbon to attend Web Summit 2024—one of the world's premier technology conferences—where they immersed themselves in discussions shaping the future of AI, accessibility, media, health, and economics.

 

Held annually, Web Summit brings together global leaders in technology, business, and policy to explore the latest developments in the digital world. This year, our students were privileged to hear from some of the most influential voices in these fields, including the CEO of Qualcomm, the President of Microsoft, and the Vice-Chancellor of Germany, who shared insights on how artificial intelligence and digital transformation reshape industries and societies.

 

Throughout the summit, our students engaged in thought-provoking discussions on emerging technologies, the impact of AI on the workforce, and strategies to bridge digital divides. Workshops and panel discussions allowed them to delve into issues like the ethical implications of AI, data privacy, and the potential of technology to drive sustainable solutions for global challenges.

 

One of the many highlights was an encounter with Spot, Boston Dynamics' iconic yellow, dog-like robot, which has become a crowd favourite for its impressive agility and lifelike movements. Beyond the novelty, Spot represents the advancements in robotics and automation that students could explore firsthand, providing a tangible connection to the cutting-edge tech shaping our world.

 

By attending Web Summit, our students gained a front-row seat to the digital revolution, equipping them with knowledge and inspiration to take their place as the leaders and thinkers of tomorrow. This experience offered a unique opportunity for students to witness the convergence of technology and society and to envision their role in navigating the challenges and possibilities that lie ahead.

F12 Students Attend Web Summit 2024

Últimas notícias

16 Fevereiro 2026
OPOMUN 2026 - Debate Overview
  OPOMUN 2026 brought together a diverse group of young delegates united by a shared commitment to diplomacy, collaboration, and global problem‑solving. Over three days, students engaged in thoughtful debate on humanitarian crises, climate security, economic development, disarmament, public health, and international governance. This extended overview provides a comprehensive narrative suitable for publication on the school website, highlighting key themes and including select quotes from official resolutions.   The conference stood out for the depth, ambition, and global awareness demonstrated by its delegates. Despite the range of issues addressed, the conference revealed a shared vision: protecting civilians, strengthening global systems, promoting sustainability, and cooperating across borders. The students showcased diplomacy, leadership, and critical thinking — qualities that reflect the school’s values and the potential of a generation ready to shape the world.   HUMANITARIAN PRIORITIES Across all committees, a strong humanitarian focus shaped the debates. Delegates consistently highlighted the need to protect civilians and guarantee access to essential aid. As stated in a Security Council resolution, “Ensuring immediate, safe, timely, and unimpeded access for humanitarian personnel and aid deliveries…” In the Human Rights Council, the urgency of safeguarding vulnerable populations was echoed: “the establishment of UN‑coordinated humanitarian corridors… to ensure the safe delivery of humanitarian assistance”. These discussions underscored the delegates' recognition that humanitarian protection is central to international peace and security.   STRENGTHENING GLOBAL GOVERNANCE Delegates also demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of the importance of transparency and accountability in global institutions. Anti‑corruption measures and institutional reform featured prominently. One resolution called for “Deploying UN‑backed forensic financial investigators to trace stolen assets abroad” Efforts to support more effective multilateral systems were present in multiple committees, showing that students recognise the need for trustworthy, well‑governed institutions.   CLIMATE CHANGE, AGRICULTURE, AND SECURITY With climate change increasingly linked to global insecurity, delegates integrated environmental concerns across many topics. An ECOSOC proposal introduced a major initiative, the “Global Farmer Safeguard and Adaptation Policy”, aimed at supporting food security, protecting farmers from climate-induced risks, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The connection between climate and instability was also raised in discussions on displacement, resource scarcity, and long‑term resilience.   INTERNATIONAL HEALTH PREPAREDNESS The WHO committees addressed both antimicrobial resistance and emergency preparedness. Delegates stressed the fragility of global health systems and emphasised the need for investment in infrastructure and crisis‑response capabilities. One resolution stated “strengthen hospital infrastructure, emergency care units, and mobile medical facilities… during pandemics, natural disasters, and armed conflicts” This future‑minded perspective highlighted students’ awareness of global interdependence and the lessons learned from recent public‑health emergencies.   TECHNOLOGY, SECURITY, AND INTERNATIONAL LAW Emerging technologies were a key theme, especially in disarmament. DISEC delegates focused on regulating drones, calling for “the establishment of the Automated Aerial Systems Monitoring Centre… to track registered commercial drones”. Their proposals demonstrated an understanding of the challenges posed by modern technologies when misused by non‑state actors.   TRANSNATIONAL CRIME AND ARMS CONTROL Across UNODC committees, delegates addressed threats posed by organised crime and illicit weapons flows. One resolution proposed “the establishment of Joint Maritime Task Forces… to monitor and intercept vessels suspected of violating international arms embargoes”. By focusing on international cooperation, financial transparency, and improved border management, students showed maturity in tackling complex global security issues.