Students work in United Nations simulations to tackle pressing global issues
DOHA, Qatar: Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) hosted the fourth annual Andrew Model United Nations (MUN) Conference for high school students on February 9, 10 and 11. More than 140 students from eight local schools came together to discuss pressing global issues and learn about the cultural, political and diplomatic perspectives of nations around the world.
Reeja Faizan, a grade 10 pupil at Cambridge International School for Girls, said: “Participating in Andrew MUN has introduced me to some of the challenges facing world leaders today and how to engage in constructive debate to tackle these global issues. The experience has given me so much confidence and has highlighted why it’s so important for young people to make our voices heard.”
Students in high school and university participate in model United Nations events all over the world, and the conferences are particularly popular among youth in Qatar. Andrew MUN is a club for CMU-Q students, and the club hosts the conference for high school students each year to promote knowledge and understanding of global issues.
Khaloud Nooh, vice president of the Andrew MUN club and a junior at CMU-Q, addressed the conference participants: “Andrew MUN helps reshape the way we think and proceed. This conference ensures that, as the leaders of tomorrow, we will have a solid foundation to work together toward nurturing societies, to find common ground while preserving rights and equality.”
At the conference, students discussed issues that are top-of-mind in the world today, such as giving asylum to refugees, creating sustainable energy, and addressing human rights concerns in war-torn regions.
During his closing remarks, Yousuf Akhlaq, co-founder and deputy secretary general of the Andrew MUN club, said: “It’s fantastic to see how much this conference has grown in just four years. Thank you to all of you for your dedication and enthusiasm throughout the conference. I encourage you to always advocate for yourselves and those around you.”
