The 11th Annual Model United Nations Namibia (MUNNAM) High School Conference has concluded successfully.

This year's conference, held from 1st to 2nd November, saw high school delegates from across Namibia engage in thought-provoking discussions centred on the theme of "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, cooperative spirit, and a deep commitment to addressing real-world challenges.

At the conclusion of the conference, outstanding delegates were recognized with prestigious accolades, including "Best Delegate," "Best Speaker," "Best Delegation," and "Best School," in honour of their exceptional contributions to the discussions and their exemplary display of diplomacy.

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 in stills 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.