At the sixth annual Jordan Model Parliament (JMP) conference, hosted by King’s Academy on March 4 and 5, some 120 students representing 15 public and private schools around the kingdom discussed and proposed solutions to some of the country’s most pressing issues.

Last year, the JMP conference did not take place as it coincided with the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, it was held online, allowing students from around the country to gather remotely to participate in 13 forums including: security council, council of the court of appeals, health, economy, water, women’s rights, human rights, security and politics, arts and culture, social development and youth. The students discussed many of the challenges facing Jordan, touching on local and international issues, and suggesting solutions to overcome them.

HE Nadia Al Saeed, the CEO of Bank al Etihad, addressed participants as the conference’s keynote speaker at the opening session. Meanwhile, filmmakers and co-founders of At Films Ala Hamdan and Tareq Baddar were guest speakers at the closing session.

In her opening remarks to participants, JMP Secretary General Sarah Masadeh ’21 said: “You are great because you have made great achievements under the most difficult circumstances, and do not know the meaning of impossible. Our country faces many challenges, but you should not lose confidence in your ability to bring about positive change. As youth of the future, our voices have great impact on the revitalization of Jordan. Most importantly, we are the only ones able to be change makers.”