From September 19 to 24, a group of seven Senior 6 students represented Belgrano Day School at the Round Square International Conference (RSIC) 2025, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, under the theme “Spirit in Action”. The conference brought together young people from around the world to share transformative experiences inspired by the IDEALS of Round Square: Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership, and Service.
Before arriving in Dubai, the students spent time in Istanbul, Türkiye, where they explored both the European and Asian sides of the city, visiting its iconic mosques, palaces, and bazaars, as well as Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman ruins.
This experience offered a valuable opportunity to immerse themselves in the city’s ancient culture and gain a deeper understanding of the Muslim faith, providing an introduction to the ethnic and cultural diversity that awaited them in Dubai.
An Unforgettable Beginning
The conference began with a warm welcome at The Millennium School, where delegates took part in cultural activities, traditional dances, and art exhibitions. That evening, they enjoyed a Desert Dinner at a Bedouin camp featuring fire performances, Tanoura dancing, camel rides, and a falcon show—an authentic immersion into Arab culture.
Opening Ceremony
On September 20, the Opening Ceremony took place at The Indian High School, featuring a Red Carpet reception and the traditional Parade of Flags symbolizing the unity of Round Square schools around the world. That evening, delegates enjoyed a Dhow Cruise Dinner through Dubai Marina, taking in the stunning skyline accompanied by live music.
Three Days, Three Spirits
The core RSIC programme was organized around three thematic pillars:
- Spirit of Environmentalism: led by The Millennium School, this day encouraged delegates to reflect on climate change through the Climate Fresk workshop and a sustainability experience at Aventura Park, where they planted ghaf tree seeds and created a natural art collage.
- Spirit of Service: coordinated by GEMS Modern Academy, students took part in community service projects at the host school—including the Hello Zindagi fair for students with special needs—and volunteered at the Jebel Ali Gurudwara, helping prepare meals in the community Langar kitchen.
- Spirit of Adventure: organized by The Indian High School, the group traveled to Wadi Al Shees (Sharjah) for a day of hiking, teamwork, and leadership challenges in the heart of nature.
One of the highlights of the RSIC is the Cultural Evening, during which students perform an artistic presentation representing their culture. Belgrano Day School students proudly represented Argentina by performing a traditional folk song by the singer Soledad, accompanied by flute.
A Closing Celebration of Community
On the final day, participants took part in a treasure hunt at Festival Mall before attending the Closing Ceremony and Gala Dinner, bringing to a close a week filled with learning, collaboration, and new international friendships.
Belgrano Day School’s participation in RSIC 2025 reaffirms the school’s commitment to educating globally minded young leaders who are prepared to act with empathy, initiative, and a transformative vision in an increasingly diverse and ever-changing world.
