(January 20, 2012)

Model Arab League preps for southwest conference

SHREVEPORT, LA — For the second consecutive year, Centenary's Model Arab League (MAL) is organizing a debate team to participate with the Southwest University Model Arab League at a conference taking place March 8-10 at the University of Arkansas in Little Rock.

2011 MAL Team at Southwest Conference
2011 MAL Team at southwest conference

"MAL is such a wonderful experience," said Jordan Ring, Centenary student and Head Delegate. "MAL offers a unique opportunity to explore in depth the political debates occurring within the Arab world. Delegates learn how to refine their skills in the art of negotiation as they try to navigate the delicate nature of diplomacy."

The Model Arab League (much like the Model United Nations teams that operate at other colleges and universities) requires groups to represent one of the Arab League's 22 member-states. This year, Centenary's team is representing Syria.

Regardless of academic major, participation in the Model Arab League is valuable as students gain firsthand leadership experience and hands-on training. Through participation in the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations' Model Arab League program students learn about the politics and history of the Arab world and the arts of diplomacy and public speech. MAL helps prepare students to be knowledgeable, well-trained, and effective citizens as well as civic and public affairs leaders.

Before students attend a Model Arab League conference, delegations research their assigned country's views on the topics to be discussed and run mock council sessions.

Model Arab League is the National Council on U.S. Arab Relations' gateway to other university leadership development programs:

  • Summer and academic year internships in Washington, DC

  • Arabic language study abroad programs in Oman, Lebanon, Yemen, and Egypt

  • Study visits to Arab countries

Only students who have participated in the Model Arab League are eligible for these programs.

The Model Arab League is still accepting members to attend the conference in March. Interested students should meet Thursday, January 26, at 4:00 p.m. in the library basement. If you are interested in learning more about the Model Arab League, send a brief email describing your interests to email.