Dear Dr. Karaganov,

I am writing on behalf of the U8: a global student network that connects students from around the world to discuss international development issues (www.u8development.org). We have been running since 2005 and have previously brought students from across Europe, South and Central Asia, Africa as well as Central America together to discuss development issues in person with a view to engaging policy makers and the media. Our summits in Warwick and Cambridge brought the student voice to the attention of governments and the world’s media, including the Guardian and Hindu.

In 2011 we are undertaking our most ambitious projects to date and would love for the Higher School of Economics to be a part of this. This November we will be hosting a global online summit that will connect students from all around the world for a weekend of truly inclusive discussion. A more developed country group will be twinned with a less developed country group; giving our members the chance to gain a new and honest first-hand perspective on life in developing countries, donor countries and the public opinion in each country towards the other.

This is a really exciting time for you to set up a U8 group or to link with the U8.

If you would like more information about what the U8 is; how a U8 group works or what the Summit will involve then please do not hesitate to get in touch. It would also be fantastic to arrange a Skype call to discuss what we do and how we can help you set up a group or connect with the U8.

Thank you for your kind consideration and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Regards,
Sabrina Rubli
University Links, U8 2011