The Role of Youth in Shaping Modern Democracies: How Our Students Lead by Example

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the active participation of youth is crucial in shaping and sustaining modern democracies. At Epsom College in Malaysia, our students exemplify this by engaging in various initiatives that promote democratic values, leadership, and community involvement.

In order to effectively engage with and shape a modern Democracy it is imperative that our students understand the fundamentals. In subjects such as Business and History, students have the opportunity to explore this through different lenses. The Business curriculum covers functions of management—including planning, organizing, coordinating, commanding, and controlling—and examines leadership styles like autocratic, democratic, and laissez-faire. While in HIstory students consider how political ideology and governmental structure impact foreign policy, international relations and ultimately the context of which citizens live. By analyzing the features of democratic governments, students learn to recommend and justify appropriate leadership styles in different contexts, bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.

Central to our commitment to democratic engagement is the Epsom Union, a competitive public speaking society dedicated to refining students’ rhetoric, presentation, and public speaking skills. These sessions allow students to delve into complex topics, such as “To what extent is the relationship between leaders and the people symbiotic in historical change?” and “Should the right to vote (suffrage) be universal, or should suffrage be conditional?” These discussions encourage critical thinking and allow students to grapple with ideas central to democratic societies.

Beyond public speaking, our co-curricular activities (CCAs) like the History and Politics Club immerse students in the practical aspects of civic responsibility. By simulating the running of government in Malaysia, students gain firsthand experience in governance, policy-making, and the complexities of political systems. This experiential learning fosters a deeper understanding of democratic processes and the importance of active citizenship. Additionally, our students also have the opportunity to participate in conferences such as the recently launched Asia Youth International Model United Nations (AYIMUN) CCA. These platforms provide opportunities to engage in diplomatic simulations, enhancing skills in negotiation, leadership, and global awareness. By representing various countries and debating international issues, students embody the role of youth in shaping global democratic discourse.

Understanding that democracy extends beyond institutional frameworks, Epsom students actively participate in community service projects. These initiatives, ranging from environmental conservation efforts to social outreach programs, allow students to experience firsthand the impact of civic responsibility. By engaging with local communities, they learn the significance of empathy, solidarity, and collective action in addressing societal challenges.

As a British international school in Asia, Epsom College boasts a diverse student body, bringing together individuals from various cultural backgrounds. This multicultural environment serves as a microcosm of global society, teaching students the value of inclusivity and mutual respect. By interacting with peers from different cultures, students develop a broader understanding of the world, preparing them to contribute positively to global democratic processes.

At Epsom College in Malaysia, we are proud to see our students embody the principles of democracy through leadership, active participation, and community engagement beyond the classroom. Their efforts not only enrich their personal development but also contribute to the broader goal of nurturing informed, responsible, and compassionate global citizens.

Mrs Chantal Thompson
Head of History & Politics