On 10 October, eight pupils from Years 10 to 12 took part in the Alleyn’s National Model United Nations (MUN) Conference, held at Alleyn’s School in Dulwich. In the week leading up to the event, members of our MUN Club prepared diligently, researching their assigned countries and practising formal debate. On the day, the atmosphere was fantastic as students from schools across London gathered for an exciting day of discussion and diplomacy.
The event began with an opening ceremony featuring the keynote speaker Dr Rola Hallam. An award-winning doctor, humanitarian and founder of the charity CanDo, Dr Hallam has spent nearly two decades working on the frontlines of healthcare in the UK, Sub-Saharan Africa and war-torn Syria. A passionate advocate for protecting healthcare and children in conflict, she has helped establish seven hospitals in Syria and inspired millions through her TED Talks and international speaking engagements. In a wonderful, inspirational and sometimes moving Q&A session, she talked about her experience in children’s healthcare in Syria and how we can all make a difference if we work together.
Delegates then debated a wide range of topics across the various committees, ranging from the tensions in the South China Sea and the regulation of lethal autonomous weapons systems to the ethics of social media bans and corporate expansionism in outer space! Throughout the day, delegates drafted, amended, and voted on resolutions, before rounding up the day with an emergency General Assembly and the Closing Ceremony, where delegates contributions to the day were celebrated.
It was a tiring but inspiring day, with our students representing the school with confidence and enthusiasm. A big well done to some of our girls on completing their first conference – the first of many, we hope!
MUN Club
