The conference which attracted 3,500 high school students from around the world was held with the aim of simulating the real sessions at the United nations in New York. The children were chosen as ‘diplomats’ so as to reflect the views and policies of their assigned countries. Just like at the United Nations, there are specialized committees and plenary sessions.
The NHSMUN is a subsidiary of the International Model United Nations association, (IMUNA) which has been officially recognized as a non-governmental organization of the United Nations. The 10 children from the White Dove School who were assigned to play the roles of representatives of Cape Verde, an Island country off the coast of West Africa, played their roles excellently well.
They were basically to deliberate and understand the intricacies of international affairs. For Opawole Titoluwani who attended as a member of the ECOFIN committee; the Economic and financial committee, during the event, he raised some issues on CRIME RARE DUE TO POVERTY. Most of the farmers that cannot make profit go on to commit economic crimes Temiloluwa also representing Cape Verde saw the trip as fun and educational. she found the members of her group quite friendly.
Eneasato Divine who was a member of the United Nations Environment programme established in 1972, found the sessions most engaging. He played an active role in proposing bills. Ogechi Ogba was the only member from her school of the High Level Political Forum on sustainable development. She contributed to the issue of reduction of marine biodiversity, a major problem in Cape Verde.
Ayomipo Odedina was on the team that discussed the importance of promoting sustainable urban growth in Sub-Saharan Africa. Christopher Obieke was in the Disarmament and international security committee, For him, this conference was an eye-opener.
In the words of the White Dove School’s Vice-principal, Mr Ola Ehuwa, the students have always been exceptional, in line with their grooming: ‘Our vision is to be a foremost global Christian school that integrates academic, creative and moral excellence in raising purposeful future leaders. Our mantra is that excellence is our birthright, ‘ she said. ‘The uniqueness in our students lies in their awareness that they are role models and creators. This reflects in their comportment, speech and interaction with people. Every year, the students of the Whitedove school explore their creativity at their Annual Innovation Fair.
‘Leadership is an important aspect of vision’, says the administrator, Mrs Oluwayemisi Adekoya. ‘The National High School Model United Nations Conference provides the right exposure for our students to learn the rudiments of leadership at global dimension. It broadens their knowledge on international diplomacy and relations. It also gives them a multi-racial exposure and enhances their team work skills and builds up confidence. Finally, it gives them an opportunity to assemble in the hallowed chamber of the U.N Headquarters, New York.’
For Maero Ozako a child motivator and editor of the children’s pages, CHUMMIES who is also in New York for these sessions, this is a grand opportunity for any child. ‘ In all my work with schools and children, very few children show the level of intellect and confidence that the children of the Whitedove School show.”
After the event the delegates also went on to some sight-seeing, visiting the White House, China Town as well as the statue of Liberty. [myad]
