Climate Games mark exciting conclusion to economics summer school

AEMS - Climate Talks - FINAL (2)

 

Students attending a summer school in the heart of Vienna can get a global perspective on climate change, with a simulated exercise that captures all the pace, excitement and impact of the subject.

The Alternative Economic and Monetary Systems (AEMS) summer school gives participants a unique opportunity to take part in the exercise as part of the programme.

In the historic setting of Vienna’s old town, the AEMS students are placed in groups to represent countries from around the globe, each vying for the best deal for their nation, whilst balancing global impact.

In 2015, the games were chaired by University Professor Dr Helga Kromp-Kolb a world-renowned expert in climate change.

The presence of distinguished academics, combined with the atmospheric setting and diversity of the students all create a realistic and highly-charged event with a truly international flavour.

Taking place from the 27 July until 14 August 2016, the AEMS course is organised by the OeAD-Housing Office, which offers sustainable accommodation for students across Austria, together with the city’s BOKU University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, and the Economy For The Common Good movement.

It is operated under a not-for-profit arrangement and as a result costs €1390. This price includes all accommodation, which is based in OeAD’s highly energy efficient passive house student properties in Vienna.

The course runs for two and a half weeks and at the end students are able to enjoy an additional free week in the OeAD accommodation, providing an ideal opportunity to explore Vienna cost-effectively and continue their networking opportunities.

The programme and all the social activities surrounding it are held wholly in the English language.

Günther Jedliczka, CEO of the OeAD-Housing Office, said: “The talks give the students an invaluable insight into the major considerations surrounding the global climate debate.

“Those taking part also gain confidence in group discussions and at the same time build-up a global network of contacts which are invaluable for their future career.

“The students on the AEMS course are looking to break the mould and make a real difference to reshaping our economy in the future.

“Their input and commitment to the climate change talks provides an exciting and inspirational dimension to a thought-provoking summer school.”

Vienna is the heartland of the Economy for the Common Good movement, which provides the focus for AEMS.

The course looks at and debates alternatives to the capitalist system, where profits still count, but factors such as life-work balance, ethics, sustainability and the environment are all factored in.

It also offers a unique opportunity for students wanting to understand how happiness and satisfaction are key drivers rather than material goods.

Students completing the AEMS summer school will be awarded five ECTS points. Training is delivered by a consortium of Austrian universities, together with technical colleges, experts and NGOs.

Places for the AEMS summer school are limited and applications are now open at www.summer-university.net

There is also a Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AEMSVienna