Written by Dr. Olesya Meskina, Head of Academic Programs SSBM Geneva.
At the Swiss School of Business and Management (SSBM), we align with the trend of global collaborations and cross-cultural learning in higher education (Research.com, 2025). We actively foster international partnerships between academic institutions and corporations, enabling collaborative research, exchange programs, and diverse learning environments. These partnerships prepare our students for international career opportunities.
By integrating these elements into our curriculum, we provide a comprehensive and practical education that extends beyond borders. Our commitment to high-class education is aligned with the principles of integrity, innovation, and cohesive learning. Our approach combines academic classes with empirical experiences, allowing students to engage in real-world applications and develop a global perspective.
Through our dedication to global collaborations and cross-cultural learning, we empower our students to become leaders in their respective fields, equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an interconnected world.
An excellent example of our commitment to these principles is the participation of our students in the Youth Training Program on International Human Rights Mechanisms: Universal Periodic Review (UPR). This program, which took place on the sidelines of the 48th Session of the UPR from January 24th to 31st, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland, serves as evidence of our dedication to fostering global citizenship and human rights education. The training provided an invaluable opportunity for our students to engage with the UPR process, gain insights into human rights mechanisms, and collaborate with international peers and experts. The program included both academic sessions led by experts in the field of Human Rights and international mechanisms, as well as practical sessions inside the Palais des Nations.
The Program was organized by the Maat for Peace, Development and Human Rights Association in cooperation with the International Alliance for Peace and Development. Maat for Peace, Development and Human Rights Association holds Special Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council and chairs the UN NGO Major Group for Africa (NMGA), representing North Africa Region. We are proud of SSBM MBA, Nadah Alqam, who possesses extensive experience within the framework of NGOs and the UN.
She was one of the co-facilitators of this program and, alongside experts from Maat for Peace and academic staff from SSBM, played a key role in fostering a rich and insightful learning experience.
On January 20th, we stepped into one of the most iconic rooms in the Palais des Nations, the heart of the United Nations Office in Geneva– Room XX, also known as the Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room. This extraordinary space, with its breathtaking ceiling designed by Spanish artist Miquel Barceló, was filled with representatives from 193 countries. The air buzzed with anticipation—the 48th session of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) had begun.
As we gazed upward, our eyes were drawn to the ceiling—a masterpiece that resembled a vibrant, sculptural panorama of colourful stalactites. The dominant blue hue, symbolizing the United Nations, intertwined with a spectrum of colors that represented multiculturalism, diversity, and the ideals of mutual tolerance and understanding among civilizations. This artistic vision resonated deeply with our school’s curriculum and core values.
The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a peer review mechanism that examines the human rights records of all 193 UN Member States. Initiated in 2008, the UPR ensures each country is reviewed every four to five years (OHCHR, 2025). During the 48th session the human rights records of 14 States were examined: Italy, El Salvador, The Gambia, Bolivia Fiji, San Marino, Kazakhstan, Angola, Iran, Madagascar, Iraq, Slovenia, Egypt, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
On that day, our group of students—representing over ten nationalities—arrived at the Palais des Nations, eager to witness a momentous event: the adoption of Italy’s report during the 48th Session of the Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council. This was just the beginning of our journey. Over the following days, until January 31st, SSBM students observed the adoption of reports, gaining direct insights into the diplomatic processes led by global leaders, human rights advocates, and NGOs. The discussions were intense, at times inspiring, and always a reminder of the responsibility nations bear in upholding human dignity.
These proceedings were conducted in multiple languages—Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish—emphasizing the universality of the discussions and the inclusive nature of the UN. The UPR is not just another bureaucratic process; it’s a powerful mechanism where every UN member state is held accountable for its human rights record. Countries present their progress, acknowledge challenges, and receive recommendations from their peers. For SSBM students, visiting these sessions was unique experience, offering a rare opportunity to witness high-level diplomatic dialogues that shape the future of human rights worldwide. The discussions were intense and always a reminder of the responsibility nations bear in upholding human dignity. Being part of this experience at the UN was nothing short of transformative. It’s one thing to study international relations in a classroom, but entirely different to see it unfold in real-time- in a room where decisions that shape the future of human rights are made.
SSBM students participated in formal UPR sessions, side events, and activities such as a peaceful rally in front of the Broken Chair– a powerful symbol of the fight against landmines and cluster bombs.
A highlight of the program was Nadah, an MBA student at SSBM, who was invited as a guest speaker. She joined diplomats and NGOs representative’s om the stage, emphasized the right to development as a fundamental human right. In her speech, Nadah highlighted Egypt’s commitment to human rights through its Constitution, Vision 2030, and sustainable development initiatives. She discussed Egypt’s significant investments in development financing, particularly in education and rural development, while acknowledging persistent challenges such as regional disparities and a decline in the Human Development Index. To address these issues, she proposed enhancing institutional frameworks, fostering cross-sector partnerships, and closing the urban-rural gap. She concluded by emphasizing that true development is about empowering people—a process that demands innovation, inclusivity, and collective action.
Learning Outcomes
Throughout the certification program, our students gained firsthand experience with UN Human Rights Mechanisms and explored the practical definition of diplomacy. They deepened their understanding of how countries facilitate dialogue within the UN framework and examined the history, activities, and operational mechanisms of the United Nations.
Our students were engaging in discussions with peers from diverse backgrounds as well as legal experts, human rights advocates, and diplomats from Europe, Africa, Latin America, and the Arab world. This exposure provided them with valuable insights into diplomacy, global governance, and the socio-economic challenges faced by different nations. The certification program also strengthened their diplomatic skills, particularly in navigating complex and sensitive discussions. Participating in formal UN sessions and side events, they examined critical issues such as military conflicts, gender equality, human rights policies, and socio-economic development. They engaged with UN representatives on Egypt’s progress and challenges, explored strategies for advancing children’s rights, and analyzed efforts to promote women’s participation in political, social, and economic spheres, particularly in African nations. This experience gave them firsthand exposure to the realities of international diplomacy and human rights advocacy.
We are pleased to see that many participants in our Business Law and Ethics class have chosen Human Rights as the focus of their presentations, reflecting their engagement with this vital and impactful field. Equally inspiring is the interest among others in pursuing careers in International Relations, showcasing their dedication to global change.
Additionally, our students have thoughtfully engaged with the principles of communication and conflict management in an international context. Their work reflects a deeper understanding of the reasoning and approaches explored in our newly introduced, innovative course on Personal Development.
A Moment of Recognition
The culmination of the program was marked by a certificate ceremony at the historic Club Suisse de la Presse estate. In this prestigious setting, SSBM students stood alongside human rights activists, lawyers, and students from international universities to celebrate their achievements. This moment symbolized not just the completion of a program, but the beginning of their journey as future diplomats, advocates, and global leaders.
This experience at the United Nations was more than just an academic exercise—it was a transformative journey that reinforced our commitment to diplomacy, human rights, and international cooperation. The 48th session of the Universal Periodic Review was a vivid demonstration of global accountability, where nations come together to assess their progress, acknowledge challenges, and strive for a future where human dignity is upheld for all.
For SSBM students, this experience was a powerful lesson in diplomacy, governance, and the power of international dialogue. It reaffirmed that the pursuit of human rights and sustainable development is not just the responsibility of governments but of every global citizen.
Reference:
OHCHR (2025) Basic facts about the UPR. Available at: https://www.ohchr.org/en/hr-bodies/upr/basic-facts (Accessed: 4 February 2025).
Research.com (2025). 11 Top Trends in Higher Education: 2025 Data, Insights & Predictions. Available at: https://research.com/education/trends-in-higher-education#div (Accessed: 5 February 2025).