Dubai hosted its largest Model United Nations Conference from 8 to 10 March at GEMS World Academy in Al Barsha. The event welcomed back renowned statesman Ban Ki-moon, the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations, and Dr. Heinz Fischer, the 11th President of the Republic of Austria.
Over 730 students from 25 schools across the UAE assembled at the IB continuum school in Dubai for the annual three-day conference. The theme for 2024 was ‘Catalyst of Our Generation: The Technological Revolution and Youth Engagement in Political Issues’, sparking discussions on crucial topics.
During the opening ceremony on 8 March, both Ban Ki-moon and Dr. Heinz Fischer, who serve as Co-Chair of the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens, addressed the students, inspiring and engaging them in global issues.
Ban Ki-moon, the ambassador of Model United Nations for GEMS schools, said, "The current state of the world is complex. There are many unresolved crises the rapidly worsening climate crisis, the war of Russia against Ukraine, the conflicts in Myanmar, Sudan, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and the devastating Israel and Palestine conflict. Amid these crises, I deeply desire to leave the world in a better state for you, future leaders and change-makers. I am happy to have another opportunity to speak to representatives of the young generation today. You are the builders of the future, the leaders of tomorrow, and I trust that you will continue the work of making the world a better place for people, planet, and prosperity. You are part of the largest generation of young people the world has ever seen. Use this to your benefit. Look beyond your group, country, and region. Be a global citizen. Act with passion and compassion to leave no one behind."
Dr Heinz Fischer said, "The United Nations is an integral part of our international political system. By engaging in a simulation of the United Nations and by being active contributors and participants, young people can get closer to the United Nations and see how important it is to negotiate in a constructive manner and how many problems can be solved through negotiation. And if there is a problem that cannot be solved, then they can also learn how to handle such a situation and discover the need to persevere, be patient and tolerant, and make compromises."
The event was also attended by Dino Varkey, Group Chief Executive Officer at GEMS Education, and Dr Saima Rana, CEO and Principal of GEMS World Academy, Dubai and GEMS Education’s Global Chief Education Officer.
Addressing the many delegates, Dr Saima Rana said: “The chance to interact with and hear from Ban Ki-moon and Dr Heinz Fischer, with their wealth of experience and leadership on the world stage, is of immeasurable value to our students. We are honoured and privileged to host them at GEMS World Academy. The opportunity to learn from their insights and wisdom is unparalleled. Our school’s annual Model United Nations Conference is the ideal platform for the leaders of tomorrow to expand their knowledge and understanding about the ways of the world. It is a chance for them to debate the most pressing and important challenges facing humanity and to work together with their peers to formulate solutions and forge a brighter future."
More About The Model United Nations Conference
Every year, GEMS World Academy, Dubai hosts a student-led Model United Nations Conference. This simulation closely mirrors the United Nations, allowing students to delve into its principles and operations. They tackle pressing global issues, aiming to devise innovative solutions.
Topics covered at this year’s event included:
- Regulation of cryptocurrencies for financial stability.
- Digital transformation for inclusive growth.
- Utilising technology to address climate change and bolster global trade resilience.
- Regulations governing e-commerce and digital trade.