On the radar
This academic year, 260 students from 38 ISP schools around the world participated in ISP’s virtual Model United Nations (MUN) conference.
Model United Nations is one of ISP’s International Learning Opportunities for Students. The programme gives participants the chance to connect with other students around the world as they learn about diplomacy, international relations, research techniques, public speaking and debating. After researching their discussion topics, students represent nations as delegates in a Model United Nations conference.
Spotlight on: Sali’s experience
We were delighted to catch up with Sali, a student at the British School of Geneva, to hear about their experience of the programme and the conference.
Q: How did you find the experience overall?
A: Participating in Model United Nations (MUN) has been a transformative experience for me. I’ve never been one to enjoy public speaking or anything related to it, and honestly the only reason I initially decided to do it was to put it on my CV. I feel like the dynamic of the conference, even though it was done via zoom, really sharpened my debate skills and diplomatic skills but also fostered a deep appreciation for global affairs.
Q: What did you learn from participating in the programme?
A: One of the standout aspects of the MUN conference was the chance to step into the shoes of a delegate representing a specific country or organisation. Taking part in the debates and negotiations with other delegates allowed me to step into the shoes of a diplomat. Through interacting with other delegates and trying to come up with solutions to the problems that have plagued our world, I learned the value of critical thinking, public speaking and teamwork skills which I now realize will be indispensable in my future endeavours.
MUN provided a platform to foster collaboration and created meaningful connections with students from diverse backgrounds. Engaging in negotiations, drafting resolutions, and building alliances with delegates from around the world underscored the importance of effective communication and diplomacy in resolving international conflicts. I feel these interactions not only broadened my cultural awareness but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of conversation in finding common ground.
Q: What did you enjoy the most about the whole experience?
A: My personal favourite aspect of the Model United Nations was how it instilled a sense of responsibility and awareness in me and not just as a representative of a country. We weren’t spoken to like children who know nothing about the world, all of our voices were respected and I felt empowered to voice my own opinions on the different topics we were debating on. The opportunity to speak with peers from various different backgrounds showed me the importance of empathy and open-mindedness in order to understand diverse perspectives and cultural nuances.
Q: How would you summarise the event?
A: My Model United Nations experience has been nothing short of transformative. It’s equipped me with a deeper understanding of global affairs and instilled in me a sense of responsibility as a global citizen. As someone who initially wasn’t exactly excited to take part in Model UN until I actually did take part it in, I wholeheartedly encourage my fellow students to seize the opportunity to participate in MUN next year.
MUN is not just a conference: It is a gateway to personal and intellectual growth; a platform from which to foster us all to be the leaders of tomorrow.
One of the topics discussed by the committees was “Women’s Participation and Role in Government”. As we continue to reflect on International Women’s Day, we want to take the opportunity to celebrate our delegates’ contribution to the debates, and reflect on how simulation opportunities like our virtual MUN helps inspire representation in leadership in the future.
Hear the summary from the “Women’s Participation and Role in Government” committee
Srishti
Student at Manthan International School
Outcomes of the conference
Several ISP students were acknowledged with awards at the event, including in the categories of Best Delegate Award, Award of Excellence and Award of Merit for each one of our committees. The schools that these students where representing include Colegio La Colina, Tenby Schools Setia Eco Park, Liceo Panamericano Samborondón, Straits International School Rawang, St Jude School, Sancta Maria International School, Manthan International School, ITJ Santa Monica, Asia Pacific Schools (APS), Lynn-Rose Schools, Tenby Schools Ipoh, Asia Pacific Schools (APS), Fairmont Schools, ITJ Palomar, Park House English School, Riviera Schools, Liceo Panamericano Centenario, Colegio Pedro de Valdivia Las Condes (CPdV Las Condes) and Colegio Internacional Aravaca.
“We are immensely proud of our ISP students who did an outstanding job as international delegates, and the work of our committed Programme ILOS Coordinators (PILOS), who supported them in every step of this process. Congratulations to all the delegates and their teachers who supported them throughout this exciting journey.” Daniela Porta, ILOS Project Manager and co-designer of ISP MUN.
*A dais member refers to the individuals leading the committee such as the Chair and Director.