The hum of diplomatic debate filled the Ocean Lakes High School library on March 27. The space was transformed into a busy council chamber modeled after the European Union (EU), containing rows of tables adorned with flags of various European countries.
High school students from across Virginia Beach took part in the Model EU simulation sponsored by Virginia Tech’s Center for European and Transatlantic Studies (CEUTS). The event brought together students and staff from Ocean Lakes, Tallwood and First Colonial high schools for an immersive diplomatic experience.
Now in its second year with Virginia Beach City Public Schools, the Model EU conference featured a special guest speaker—Ambassador of the Republic of Malta, Godfrey Xuereb—who addressed students via video call. His participation marked a significant milestone for the program, as it was the first time someone of this rank participated.
“You will hopefully develop skills of critical thinking, of diplomacy and consensus thinking, which are vital not only in the EU, but in any leadership role,” Ambassador Xuereb told the students before they began the simulation.
Ambassador Xuereb also held a separate meeting with students representing his country in the program, giving them unique insights into Malta’s role in European international relations and an exciting opportunity to connect directly with a current ambassador.
The Model EU program is designed to engage students with real-world issues facing the EU and challenge them to develop consensus-driven solutions.
“As the co-chair for the debate, I had the unique opportunity to watch the debate flow from a leader’s perspective,” said Mihika Sakharpe, a sophomore at Ocean Lakes High School. “The most notable learning experience was engaging in diplomacy and compromise to reach a consensus, a difficult situation considering 27 countries must agree unanimously on two controversial topics. I learned powerful lessons in public speaking, networking, leadership and international relations, knowledge I hope to take forward throughout my debate and Model UN career.”
Originally launched in Blacksburg, the program expanded to southeastern Virginia in 2024. Organizers plan to return to Virginia Beach next year, continuing to provide students with valuable leadership and negotiation experience.
