Jordanian and American High School Students Hold Dialogue via Digital Video Conferencing about Climate Change
November 4, 2009
AMMAN – Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Minister of Education Dr. Walid Ma’ani and U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan today led a two-way dialogue via Digital Video Conferencing (DVC) between Jordanian and American high school students about the issue of climate change. This dialogue was organized by the U.S. Department of Education in cooperation with the iEARN (International Education and Resource Network), which is the world's largest non-profit global network that enables teachers and youth to use the Internet and other technologies to collaborate on projects that enhance learning and make a difference in the world.
Ten Jordanian students from 8th - 12th Grades, representing various high schools in Amman, engaged in this dialogue with 10 American high school students. The students discussed climate change and global warming in their counties, as well as sustainable solutions and ways to reduce greenhouse gases.
In remarks during the DVC, Minister Ma’ani affirmed the importance of such dialogues between students from both countries. He added: “We are looking forward to reinforcing constructive dialogue among us through more collaborative projects and programs between our students and educators in all educational aspects as bridges for peace, tolerance and a better life for our children.”
In his remarks, U.S. Secretary of Education Duncan reiterated American President Obama’s statements in Cairo, affirming that, “the United States seeks to pursue new partnerships with governments, citizens, community organizations, religious leaders, businesses and international organizations in the areas of education, economic development, science and technology and health.”
###