International School Suva (ISS) resumed the highly engaging and enriching Model United Nations conference at Laucala Beach yesterday.
After a pause because of COVID-19, the event yesterday marked the 13th year the school has hosted the gathering, which is a recreation of the United Nations proceedings, with students role-playing representatives of different countries in UN committees.
More than 100 participants from high schools such as Jai Narayan College, Natabua High School, Saint Joseph’s Secondary School, Suva Grammar School, International School Nadi, Adi Cakobau School and Yat Sen Secondary School are taking part in the two-day program.
The event was officially opened by New Zealand High Commissioner Charlotte Darlow, who spoke of her extensive experience in multilateral diplomacy in the UN.
She told participants they could professionally disagree with people, but still needed the relationships.
Ms Darlow stressed that the UN conferences, while large and intimidating, were rooms full of individuals who were there to discuss and write resolutions to solve pressing global issues.
Among the participants was Mannokepa Monise, a Year 11 student of Natabua High School.
She said being part of the Model UN conference for the first time was a huge achievement, as it encouraged her to gain leadership skills and confidence in public speaking.
