About 100 students from various nationalities and five schools in Dubai recently immersed themselves in the world of diplomacy and international relations through the first edition of Junior DIAMUN, a simulated United Nations (UN) conference. This event, hosted by Dubai International Academy (DIA) Emirates Hills, was themed ‘Innovating Towards a Sustainable Future’ and aimed at instilling essential skills in young minds.
The young delegates, who came from schools operated by Innoventures Education including DIA Emirates Hills, DIA Al Barsha, Raffles International School, Raffles World Academy, and Collegiate International School, engaged in rigorous debates and discussions. They tackled global issues such as gender disparity, disaster preparedness, global warming and climate change, water shortages, and poverty and hunger. The students were divided into committees, each focusing on a specific topic, allowing them to delve deep into their areas of interest.
Through the conference, the students honed their skills in writing, public speaking, research, critical thinking, and self-management. For many, it was an eye-opening experience that not only enhanced their understanding of global issues but also boosted their confidence and public speaking abilities.
Noel Stephen, a 10-year-old student from DIA Emirates Hills, authored a resolution titled ‘Preparedness in the face of natural disasters.’ Reflecting on his experience, he said, “The conference was a great opportunity to debate about and identify solutions for global issues.” His sentiment was echoed by other participants who found the event both educational and empowering.
Maryam Rashed Alshamsi, a 10-year-old Emirati student from Raffles International School, shared her experience presenting a position paper on encouraging the adoption of a circular economy in the fashion industry. “We emphasized the importance of educating consumers and raising awareness,” she said, noting the boost in confidence she felt after her presentation.
Ihita Gosavi, a Grade 5 student at Collegiate International School, added, “I prepared for the conference by doing lots of research on real-world issues, and it was an amazing experience being part of a team.” Her preparation and participation exemplify the dedication and enthusiasm that characterized the event.
Poonam Bhojani, CEO of Innoventures Education, expressed immense pride in the students’ accomplishments. “I’m incredibly proud of our students for successfully organizing the first-ever Junior DIAMUN conference. Their enthusiasm for global issues and willingness to step into the shoes of diplomats is inspiring. This was a fantastic opportunity for young students to develop critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork skills, while fostering global citizenship,” she said.
The success of the Junior DIAMUN conference highlights the importance of engaging young minds in global issues and providing them with platforms to develop essential skills. It also underscores the role of educational institutions in shaping future leaders who are not only knowledgeable but also empathetic and solution-oriented. As these students continue to grow and learn, experiences like Junior DIAMUN will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their development as global citizens.
