The recently-held annual Model United Nations Namibia (MUNNAM) conference recognised high school students for their contributions. 

The conference, co-hosted by UN Namibia, the British High Commission and the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture, provided an opportunity for students to engage in a simulated UN General Assembly session that centred on gender equality and women’s empowerment. 

The highest accolades were awarded to Johannes Johannes from Hage Geingob High School and Ndapewa Shilemba from Windhoek International School (WIS). All participants received certificates of participation, with a total of 16 schools and 93 delegates contributing to the success of the conference. 

United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Namibia Charles Moore said “I was truly impressed by the outstanding display of diplomacy from our young delegates. The Namibian youth are well-poised to lead in the future. Listening to their ideas and perspectives inspires hope for a brighter tomorrow.”

The MUNNAM conference plays a vital role in empowering Namibian youth by enhancing their critical thinking and public speaking abilities.

 In addition, it fosters international collaboration. 

This initiative not only enriches their educational journey, but also equips them with essential skills for their future pursuits. 

The organisers are optimistic about the increasing interest and capabilities of Namibian youth in addressing global challenges, and cultivating leadership skills that will benefit them in the years to come. The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund representative and acting UN resident coordinator Samuel Ocran emphasised the significance of Namibian youth participating in matters of national importance, particularly those that resonate with their interests. 

“Youth are not merely recipients of the UN agenda. They are vital collaborators in crafting a sustainable future. Their energy, creativity and innovation are instrumental in realising the sustainable development goals,” he remarked. 

In the previous year, Model UN Namibia experienced a notable rise in female representation and empowerment among Namibian girls. The UN states that in the last decade, 20 girls have co-chaired sessions, 200 boys have taken part in conference coordination, and nearly 10 000 students have been directly influenced through their involvement in the conference and mock simulation activities.

-psiririka@nepc.com