SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) - The Savannah State University (SSU) Model African Union Team took home a total of 10 awards at the 27th Southeast Model African Union Conference.
The 27th edition of the Southeast Model African Union (SEMAU) Conference was held at Fort Valley State University from November 20-23, 2024. The eight-member SSU team represented the nations of Liberia and Rwanda in this year’s simulation of the African Union proceedings. The team came away with a total of 10 awards, including the Outstanding Delegation Award for both countries.
This year’s Outstanding Delegate awards were presented to the following students:
- Naomi Allen, a freshman mass communications major, who represented Liberia in the Economic Matters committee
- Carey Bynes-Jones, a senior majoring in sociology, for his representation of Rwanda on the Executive Council
- Tanayah Henderson, a sophomore political science major, also representing Liberia on the Executive Council;
- Kayla Jordan, a junior in political science who represented Liberia in Peace and Security
- Kenza Ouedraogo, a junior political science major, who represented Rwanda in the Social Matters committee.
"Attending the SEMAU conference was a highlight of my academic journey, said Bynes-Jones.
“I had the incredible opportunity to connect with peers and friends from different campuses across Georgia, as well from New Jersey and New York, and build relationships that I believe will last into the future.”
The Honorable Mention Awards were presented to political science freshman Markeema Cranston for her work on the Social Matters committee representing Liberia, and mass communications senior Anayah Lewin for her contributions to the Peace and Security committee representing Rwanda.
Dr. Otilia Iancu, chair of the Department of Political Science and Public Affairs, said, “Our students, through this experience, have a better understanding of the world's problems and challenges, then identify and propose solutions. It instills confidence, builds public speaking and presentation skills.”
Freshman Naomi Allen, a first-time participant at the simulation, said, “This was an amazing experience. Seeing students collaborating and sharing ideas and thoughts for the betterment of Africa and being genuinely passionate about it was awesome.”
The 27th edition of SEMAU was attended by Model AU teams from twelve universities including University of Georgia, Georgia Southern University, Albany State University, and Middle Georgia College and State University.
SSU’s Model United Nations and Model African Union student organizations were established in 2004 by Prof. Emmanuel Naniuzeyi. SSU teams have attended 14 consecutive Annual International Model African Union conferences hosted by Howard University and have won top awards.