Leader in the making

For budding statesmen here's a 'model' opportunity to discuss ideas, experience leadership and enact as delegates.

As RIIMUN goes international, participants get an opportunity to research complex global issues and find a solution

For budding statesmen here8217;s a 8216;model8217; opportunity to discuss ideas, experience leadership and enact as delegates. Organising the 11th Model United Nations conference, Rotary International India, formerly known as the Rotary Club of Pune North East, will provide a prudent platform for all the young enthusiasts. The three-day conference will be held at Symbiosis Centre for Management Studies, Viman Nagar from January 30 to February 1. Students and working professionals in the age group of 17 to 26 can be a part of the discussions. The registration for the same will be online till November 30.

A model United Nations is an enactment of the working of United Nations by children. Students operate as diplomats for the country assigned to them and research and determine positions. They are also expected to investigate international issues, debate on them and provide solutions. It offers an excellent forum for the discussion of complex global issues and allows students an opportunity to explore the powers and limitations of international negotiation.

For 10 years Rotary International India8217;s Model UN RIIMUN, formerly called RCPNE MUNA, has been turning high school students into delegates tasked with fostering world peace and stability. The sessions follow actual United Nations UN procedure and the simulation is meant to be as authentic as possible. The objective is to pass a resolution that finds a solution to the problems being discussed.

8220;The model UN conference makes students think beyond the boundaries of their own country and recognise the serious issues faced by those around the world,8221; said Lenold Vaz, secretary reneral for RIIMUN 2009.

There will be 12 committees debating topics like socio-political rights of refugees, blanket-ban on child labour, impact of bio-energy on food security and dependence on nuclear energy. Each participating team is given a country to represent at the Model United Nations Conference. Depending upon the country they represent, each delegate participates in a different committee. Delegates research a country, take on roles as diplomats, investigate international issues, debate, deliberate, consult, and then develop solutions to global issues.

A diplomat from Indian Government and a representative from United Nations will be the guest speakers at the event. Around eight hundred delegates are expected to debate for the cash prize of Rs 1,00,000. Another award will be given away for the best costume of the representative country. The students can form a team of four to 12 delegates, depending on the country they will be representing