When the “cultural other” becomes socially close during the Covid-19 pandemic: An Afghani (American University of Afghanistan)-Lebanese (Phoenicia University) intercultural communication narrative

The COVID-19 pandemic has united the world into one human community striving to survive and go back to “normal” life. Educationally, there is a true demand to set effective approaches, initiatives, and programs that would promote intercultural citizenship and global citizenship for students. In response to such a demand, the American University of Afghanistan (AUAF) and Phoenicia University (PU), Lebanon implemented a joint intercultural program: The Global Cultural Village. The Village connected and brought together 20 students (10 Afghani and 10 Lebanese) from two different cultures at a time of social and physical distancing. Over a period of five months, virtual, fortnightly meetings were led by the students and were facilitated by three conveners from both universities. This presentation will inform higher education institutions in meeting their commitments towards internationalization and creating global citizenship amid and post-COVID 19.