Ardgillan College students at St Andrew’s International Model United Nations
Swedish Success at Model United Nations!
Ardgillan College students at St Andrew’s International Model United Nations
From Friday 13th to Monday 16th February, five students from Ardgillan College took part in St Andrew’s International Model United Nations (SAIMUN), a four-day conference that brought together students from schools across Ireland and beyond to debate some of the most pressing global issues of our time. Representing the Kingdom of Sweden, Ardgillan students demonstrated outstanding preparation, diplomacy, and teamwork as they engaged in rigorous debate, negotiation, and resolution writing across a range of committees.
Model United Nations (MUN) is an academic simulation of the United Nations in which students act as diplomats representing different countries. Participants research their assigned nation’s policies, debate global issues in committees, and work collaboratively to draft and pass resolutions, developing skills in public speaking, critical thinking, negotiation, and international awareness.
Thelma served as Ambassador for the Swedish delegation and represented Sweden on Special Political and Decolonisation Committee (SPECPOL), debating topics on disinformation and interference in state elections. Thelma played a key leadership role in coordinating the delegation’s approach and articulating Sweden’s positions with confidence and clarity. Shane represented Sweden on the Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC), debating the question of preventing non-state actors from acquiring weapons of mass destruction. This complex topic required a deep understanding of global security, international law, and international cooperation. Darragh took part in The Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CTSD), engaging with the question of regulating the use of genetic engineering and human enhancement. His committee explored the ethical, scientific, and societal implications of rapidly advancing technologies. Andrew represented Sweden on the Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee, debating the question of the protection and promotion of minority languages globally. This topic highlighted issues of cultural identity, human rights, and cultural preservation. Willard participated in the Ecology and the Environment Committee (E&E), where delegates examined the question of the management and environmental impact of artificial intelligence, considering how emerging technologies can be balanced with environmental sustainability.
In addition to committee work, students had the opportunity to hear from guest speakers, including Richard Boyd Barrett T.D, who spoke about contemporary political challenges, and Gina London, who delivered an engaging talk on communication, leadership, and confidence in public speaking. These sessions provided valuable real-world insight and inspiration for all delegates!
Over the course of the conference, all five students demonstrated impressive research skills, strong public speaking ability, and a commitment to respectful and constructive debate. Their participation in SAIMUN was a very rewarding educational experience. Huge congratulations to Thelma who won the Distinguished Delegate Award! This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the work she put in over the four days of the conference.
If you would like advice in getting involved with MUN get in touch with the team at Ardgillan College and for more information on the Model UN programme, please visit https://www.un.org/en/mun
