Namibian Students Step Into Diplomatic Roles at the Ongoing 2-Day Model UN Namibia Conference 2023: Addressing Urgent Public Health Issues.

Windhoek, Namibia, November 1, 2023 

In a gathering of young minds and seasoned diplomats, the 11th Model United Nations Namibia (MUNNAM) Conference kicked off today, November 1, and will continue through November 2 at the UN House in Windhoek. This ongoing event has attracted students from various schools across Namibia, who have assumed the roles of UN delegates, to deliberate on the urgent public health issue.

Model UN Namibia has seen a significant increase in female representation and empowerment among Namibian girls. Approximately 70% of participants are female, many of whom are taking up leadership roles. Over the past decade, 20 girls have co-chaired sessions, 200 boys have been involved in conference coordination, and nearly 10,000 learners have been directly impacted through the conference and mock simulation participation.

Students from diverse educational institutions across Namibia have come together to take on the roles of UN delegates representing different member states. They are engaging in debates that offer a glimpse into the potential future leaders of international diplomacy.

With an impressive 40 years of diplomatic experience, His Excellency Charles Moore, British High Commissioner to Namibia, aimed to provide the students with an understanding and inspiration through a glimpse into the roles of diplomacy. He encouraged the young participants by stating, "I hope some of you will be encouraged to look at international diplomacy as a career because it is the most fabulous."

Mr. Mzingisi Gqwede, Director of Adult Education in the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture, delivered the keynote address on behalf of Hon. Anna Nghipondoka. The speech underscored the crucial roles of education and innovation in addressing the challenges of chronic diseases and pandemics. It highlighted Namibia's efforts in public health awareness, the adoption of digital health solutions, and the necessity for international cooperation. The address reinforced that these health challenges 'pose a challenge for all public health systems and require innovative approaches to improve population health effectively.

Ms. Hopolang Phororo, the UN Resident Coordinator for Namibia, highlighted the significance of the Model UN, stating, 'The Model UN, which brings us here today, is a valuable engagement tool for high school students to learn about the United Nations and global challenges. It provides them with a platform to understand the complexities of international diplomacy, the importance of multilateralism, and the urgency of global issues such as health crises.

The 11th MUNNAM Conference is proving to be more than a simulation; it's a crucible for innovation and diplomacy. With students at the forefront, the event is showcasing not only the challenges facing public health but also the promise of future leaders capable of tackling these complex issues. As the conference progresses, stakeholders and participants look forward with anticipation to the outcomes and resolutions that will emerge.