Successful conclusion of the 11th annual model United Nations Namibia (MUNNAM) high school conference

The 11th annual Model United Nations Namibia (MUNNAM) High School Conference, hosted by the UN System in Namibia in collaboration with the British High Commission in Namibia, concluded with resounding success on November 2, 2023, at the UN House in Klein Windhoek. This year’s conference, held from November 1st to 2nd, saw high school delegates from across Namibia engage in thought-provoking discussions centered on the theme “The rising burden of chronic diseases and pandemics poses a challenge for public health systems and requires innovative approaches to improve population health: A new wave in public health.”

The MUNNAM conference brought together 100 high school delegates from different schools who adeptly assumed the roles of diplomats representing their respective countries. Over two days of intensive deliberations, these young diplomats showcased their skills in debate, lobbying, and diplomacy to address pressing global health challenges and their associated socio-economic and political implications.

The conference culminated in the formulation of a comprehensive resolution that offers innovative approaches to tackling the critical issues discussed during the event. Delegates exhibited remarkable diplomatic acumen, a cooperative spirit, and a deep commitment to addressing real-world challenges.

At the conclusion of the conference, outstanding delegates were recognized with prestigious accolades, celebrating their exceptional contributions to the discussions and their exemplary display of diplomacy. Among the remarkable individuals who shone brightly during the 2023 MUNNAM conference, we proudly announce the winners of these coveted titles:

Best Speaker: The title of “Best Speaker” was awarded to Stefan Becker from Windhoek High School, representing the nation of Colombia. Stefan’s eloquence and ability to convey compelling arguments set him apart, leaving a lasting impression on the delegates and the entire conference.

Best Delegate: Kiran Wolf, a dedicated delegate from Windhoek International School representing China, demonstrated outstanding diplomatic prowess and comprehensive knowledge of the topics at hand. Kiran’s exceptional performance earned the esteemed title of “Best Delegate.”

• Best Delegation: The prestigious title of “Best Delegation” was jointly awarded to Lukas Neuhaus from DHPS and Kazuki Sadamoto from Windhoek International School, representing the Russian Federation. Their cooperative efforts and exemplary diplomacy made them an unbeatable team, recognized as the finest delegation at the conference.
• Best School: St. Paul’s College distinguished itself as the “Best School” in recognition of its commitment to fostering excellence in its students and its remarkable overall performance during the MUNNAM conference.
• Best New School: Osire Secondary School, in its first appearance at the Model United Nations Namibia (MUNNAM) conference, exhibited outstanding dedication and enthusiasm. As the “Best New School,” Osire Secondary School is commended for its remarkable debut and promising future in the world of Model UN.

These exceptional young individuals and schools not only demonstrated their dedication to the ideals of diplomacy and international cooperation but also showcased their potential as future leaders and global citizens. The UN System in Namibia and its partners applaud their outstanding achievements and look forward to witnessing their continued growth and contributions to addressing global challenges.

For over a decade, MUNNAM has been a catalyst for youth engagement and empowerment in Namibia, fostering a deep understanding of the role of the United Nations, member states, civil society, and other stakeholders in addressing complex global issues. This annual high school conference has equipped hundreds of Namibian youths with practical skills in research, public speaking, resolution writing, debate, negotiation, and diplomacy. These skills not only enrich their academic experience but also serve as a solid foundation for their future careers.

The UN System in Namibia, the British High Commission in Namibia, and the Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture in Namibia are proud to present the MUNNAM program as an enriching extracurricular activity that adds substantial value to the curriculum, spanning various subject areas such as history, geography, science, economics, and English. The program still fosters a keen interest in global politics while providing a fun, experiential learning platform for young minds.

Charlotte Fenton, Deputy British High Commissioner, expressed her delight in supporting the Model UN program for the third consecutive year, noting its role in nurturing global citizenship awareness and fostering collaboration among learners. She commended the participating high school students for their confidence and enthusiasm in engaging in diplomatic discourse.

Anthea Basson, Head of the United Nations Information Centre in Windhoek, extended her gratitude to the teachers and passionate past participants, emphasizing the collective effort required to sustain the Model UN program over 11 successful years.

The 2023 MUNNAM conference was a remarkable showcase of the potential and passion of Namibian youth, reinforcing the importance of diplomatic dialogue and international

cooperation in addressing global health challenges. The UN System in Namibia and its partners look forward to continuing their support for this impactful initiative, building a brighter future through the engagement of young leaders.

About MODEL UN The MUNNAM program in Namibia, under the custodianship of UNIC Windhoek, is a flagship educational initiative that equips participants with invaluable life skills and a deeper understanding of the United Nations, multilateralism, and the world at large. Participants gain expertise in research, public speaking, resolution writing, debate, negotiation, and diplomacy, positioning them for success in their academic journeys and future careers.

For more information, contact Anthea Basson at bassona@un.org or by telephone: +264 815511695