For Students

During this conference, we hope that new friendships are made, new aspirations to make a positive change in the world are realized, and knowledge and experience are gained and that all participants leave with a positive outlook on life knowing that they can lend a helping hand to make the world a better place.” – Michaela, Student Leadership Committee

Delegates will not only be inspired to make a change, but also find ways to do it through discussions with each other and hearing the stories of the keynote speakers. It is our goal to create a space where students feel encouraged to unite their passions and talents to share and come up with creative projects that will improve our local communities.” – Lena, Service Learning Student Leadership Committee

We see participation in GISS as a cycle:

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What happens during a Global Issues Service Summit and what am I expected to do as a participant?
Your participation in the summit will begin before you travel:

Steps participation

What are the key aspects of a summit?
Check out the “Summit Program” link for a full view of the summit details. Key aspects include keynote speakers, workshops, expert panels, simulations, sustainability teams and a day of service.

What responsibilities will I have?
As a participant, you will be responsible for being an engaged and active member of your sustainability team, and gaining awareness of the numerous issues facing our world today. Ultimately, you will be responsible for taking what you’ve learned at the summit and applying it in your own community to change things for the better.

What is Service Learning day and what will I be doing? Do I need special clothes, footwear or equipment?
Everyone participates in service day. You will be able to choose your top 3 options and we’ll do our best to get you into a group that appeals to you. You could be planting trees, helping in a children’s home or learning a new skill alongside local Mozambicans. See the service day options under “Summit Program”. You should wear closed-toed shoes for your service activity, along with clothes that can get dirty. Sunscreen, a hat and a water bottle are also necessary.

How much spending money should I bring to the summit?
There will be a visit to a local craft market during the summit, so you may want to bring some spending money. Pocket money for snacks at the airport is also recommended. Approximately $75 (US) is adequate and will allow for some shopping at the craft market.

What should I pack for the summit?

  • Three changes of clothes (casual, appropriate)
  • A fourth change that you don’t mind getting dirty (service day)
  • Closed shoes (service day)
  • Sunblock
  • Non plastic eater bottle
  • Hat
  • Toiletries
  • Camera (optional)

Do I need a visa or any special documentation?
Most visitors to Mozambique require a VISA. Unfortunately, Visas are no longer being issued upon arrival, unless for exceptional cases. You will have to arrange visas for the delegation prior to the trip. Please consult the following web site for more information: http://www.embamoc-usa.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=89&Itemid=64

  • Note the link above is for the Mozambican Embassy in Washington, DC. Procedures may very slightly from Embassy to Embassy. Please contact the nearest Mozambican Embassy for accurate information.
  • Check which is your nearest Mozambican Embassy: http://embassy-finder.com/mozambique_embassies
  • Please contact Gabriel Limaverde (gabriel.limaverde@aism-moz.com) if you are experiencing any difficulties processing your visas).

How do I register in order to attend the Global Issues Service Summit?
Click on the registration link on the home page and follow instructions.

How much does it cost?
If you register online by the early bird registration deadline (Feb. 18, 2015) it costs $225. If you register by the regular registration deadline (Mar. 31, 2015) it costs $250 per student.

How do I arrange to get to Maputo for the summit?
If your school is bringing a team to the summit, your teacher will arrange your flights, etc.

How can I communicate with other students who are already involved in GIN/GISS?
There are many online options for communicating with students active with GIN/GISS. For instance, click on the Facebook or Twitter links on the aisa-giss.org home page and connect that way. Online forums are also available through http://www.global-issues-network.org.

Which schools are likely to attend?
2014 participating schools included:

  • American International School of Johannesburg
  • American International School of Lesotho
  • American International School of Lusaka
  • American International School of Mozambique
  • American School of Antananarivo
  • American School of Kuwait
  • American School of Yaounde
  • Brookhouse School
  • Christian Academy in Mozambique
  • Corona Schools
  • Emerald Schools
  • Harare International School
  • International Community School of Addis Ababa
  • International School of Kenya
  • International School of Tanganyika
  • Iringa International School
  • The Kaust School
  • Lincoln Community School – Accra, Ghana
  • St Stithians Girls College
  • Aga Khan Academy Mombassa

Where will I stay while at the summit and are there rules in terms of behavior?
All students are hosted by AISM home stay families. You will be matched with a family and will stay in that family’s home. You will be accommodated by a family along with 1 to 4 other members of your school team. That means you will be staying with your own peers and friends; at the same time, you’ll be able to get to know some AISM students and families. A behavior contract will be sent to all participants prior to the summit. Major rules include no alcohol or drugs, no improper/disrespectful clothing and/or behavior, and obeying the house rules of your host family.

How does my school create a GIN – Global Issues Network club or similar and what role could this club play on our campus?
All you need to do to start a Global Issues Network club or something similar at your school is to find a teacher who will serve as your sponsor/advisor, find a place to meet each week; advertise your meetings, inspire participants to become aware of global issues, and begin to make changes on your campus as a result (environmental initiatives, service projects in your local community, aware campaigns, etc.)

Got more questions? Please pose them in the comment area below: