ORANJESTAD (AAN): Recently, a group of 20 second-year students from the Organization, Governance & Management (OGM) program at the University of Aruba participated in an insightful visit to the Bestuurskantoor, where they had the opportunity to engage with Prome Minister Mike Eman and other government officials. The visit was part of the Constitutional and Administrative Law (CAL) module, a core course designed to give students a deeper understanding of the inner workings of government, the decision-making processes, and how citizens influence the democratic state.
The CAL module is an integral part of the OGM program, where students explore foundational principles of public law. These include the distinction between public and private law, the role of constitutional and administrative law in regulating government actions, and essential concepts such as the separation of powers (trias politica). The course also emphasizes citizens’ fundamental rights and the public decision-making process.
A major part of the course is dedicated to understanding the constitutional system of Aruba within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This framework allows students to compare political and administrative systems, offering a clearer perspective on Aruba’s position within a broader regional and international context.
During the visit to the Bestuurskantoor, the students had the opportunity to interact with Prome Minister Mike Eman and Minister Mervin Wyatt-Ras, both of whom shared valuable insights. The session offered a chance for the students to connect theory with practice by reflecting on real-world governance and public policy. The interactive exchange included a dynamic dialogue, where students were encouraged to ask questions, share reflections, and engage with the principles they were learning in class.
Prome Minister Eman, who has always emphasized the importance of civic education and leadership development among youth, highlighted the value of involving future generations in the governance process. He stressed that a strong community starts with young people who understand their role in society and are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.
This visit, part of an ongoing effort to connect academic education with the reality of governance, is a vital step in preparing University of Aruba students to become active participants in the future of Aruba. By blending theory with practice, the students gain a deeper appreciation for the responsibilities of leadership and public service.
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