Over 750+ students representing more than 40+ schools across India and overseas participated in 16th edition of VIBGYOR Model United Nations (VIBGYOR MUN 16) centred around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Organized by VIBGYOR Group of Schools, a K-12 school chain, over three days in Pune from July 17, the event was spread across nine specialised committees and more than 20 hours of committee sessions. Students deliberated on pressing global issues centred around reducing inequalities, promoting inclusive societies, and ensuring equal opportunities for all through diplomacy, negotiation, and consensus-building.
This year’s conference inspired young delegates “to explore how awareness, empathy, diplomacy, and collaboration can help build a fairer and more inclusive world. “The conference was inaugurated by Mr. Darrin Farrant, Director, United Nations Information Centre, who encouraged students to become responsible global citizens committed to driving meaningful change through dialogue and cooperation.
The conference also featured insightful Fireside Chats with Dr. Geetali Tilak, Ms. Radhika Dhingra, and Mr. Mandar Apte, while the MUN Colosseum was adjudicated by an esteemed jury comprising Mr. Sanjay Lakhani, Ms. Sharon Mathur, and Ms. Nuzhat Aziz, enriching the conference with diverse perspectives from academia, social impact, media, and industry.
The event culminated in a grand closing ceremony, graced by Mr. Rustom Kerawalla, Founder Chairman, and Ms. Kavita Kerawalla, Vice Chairperson, VIBGYOR Group of Schools, who encouraged participants to carry forward the values of equality, inclusion, and responsible leadership in building a more just and compassionate world.
Kavita Kerawalla, speaking on the occasion said, ” This year’s Model United Nations challenged students to look beyond differences and understand the importance of equity, inclusion, and mutual respect in building stronger communities. It was inspiring to witness our delegates engage with complex global issues through empathy, critical thinking, and collaboration. These are the experiences that nurture responsible leaders who are prepared to contribute meaningfully towards creating a more just and inclusive world.”
Highlights of VIBGYOR MUN 16 included:
- The MUN Colosseum: A high-impact parliamentary-style debate showcasing delegates’ ability to present diverse perspectives and build consensus.
- Fireside Chats: Inspiring conversations with eminent leaders from academia, peacebuilding, social impact, and media on creating a more equitable and inclusive world.
- A Midnight Crisis Simulation: Testing delegates’ strategic thinking, negotiation, and decision-making under pressure.
- A student-led MUN Press Conference: Including career guidance sessions, a vibrant socio-cultural evening, and the felicitation of VIBGYOR Kids &High – Horamavu as the Best Delegation, alongside other individual award winners.
