Apeejay School, Saket concludes ARCANE MUN 2024 with inspiring speeches

Apeejay School, Saket successfully concluded the 3rd edition of the ARCANE Model United Nations (MUN) Conference. The event saw the participation of over 250 student delegates from 11 schools, making it one of the largest MUN conferences in the region. Mr. Mohammed Mahmoud Ibrahim Elafify Khater, First Secretary at the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in New Delhi, presided over as the  Chief Guest on the second day. 

Addressing the audience, Mr. Mohammed Mahmoud Ibrahim Elafify Khater, praised the students for their dedication and highlighted the role of youth in shaping global diplomacy. He said, “It is an honour to stand before you to discuss the enduring and vibrant relationship between Egypt and India. These two nations are rich in history, culture, and potential. Our ties date back thousands of years, rooted in a shared experience of trade and cultural exchange. Ancient traders travelled the seas, bringing with them not just goods but also ideas and traditions that enriched both civilisations. This historical connection set the stage for a bond that has deepened over time.” 

He further highlighted that  in 1974 when India gained its independence, Egypt was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the newly independent nation. “This marked the beginning of a partnership built on mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to sovereignty and non-alignment.”

“Today, our relationship encompasses a broad spectrum of collaboration. Economically, India has become one of Egypt’s largest trading partners in Asia. Culturally, the bonds we share are profound,”emphasised Mr. Mohammed Mahmoud Ibrahim Elafify Khater. 

Adding further, the Chief Guest said, “Our nations celebrate rich heritages that inspire creativity and innovation. Cultural festivals, educational exchanges, and tourism enhance our understanding of one another, creating a history of friendship that strengthens our connection. We have enhanced cooperation in defence, focusing on counterterrorism and maritime security. Together, we are committed to maintaining peace and stability in our region, recognising that security is a shared responsibility. Together, we can work toward a future marked by peace, prosperity, and shared success.”

The two-day event aimed to provide students with a platform to engage in debates and discussions on pressing global issues through various MUN committees, helping them develop diplomatic, leadership, and problem-solving skills. The conference featured 11 different committees, each focusing on significant global issues. These committees included the UN General Assembly (UNGA) – ECOFIN, the UN Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW), the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the UN Security Council (UNSC), the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO), the All India Political Parties Meet (AIPPM), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the International Press. Topics discussed ranged from economic stability, women’s rights, and cybersecurity to environmental conservation, global health, and athlete welfare.

Expressing his gratitude to the Chief Guest for his presence, Dr Sujeet Eric Masih, Principal of Apeejay School, Saket, “I would like to extend a special welcome to our chief guest for today’s ceremony, His Excellency, Mr. Mohammed Mahmoud Ibrahim Elafify Khater, the First Secretary of the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in New Delhi. This event has been a testament to the intelligence, leadership, and potential of the young minds gathered here. Each one of you has displayed the qualities essential for creating a better and more peaceful world.” 

The Principal further mentioned, “Mr Khater, your commitment to fostering global peace and strengthening diplomatic ties is an inspiration to all of us. Our countries, India and Egypt, share a relationship rooted in history, culture, and mutual respect. For centuries, our civilisations have been beacons of knowledge, culture, and trade. From ancient exchanges along the banks of the Nile and the Ganges to modern-day diplomatic and economic cooperation, the bond between our nations has only strengthened. Today, this relationship continues to thrive in many areas, including education, trade, culture, and diplomacy.”

“We hope that the young diplomats, who have participated in this Model United Nations Conference, will learn from the strength of such partnerships and work together toward creating meaningful, peaceful collaborations in the future. As we conclude our ARCANE MUN 2024, I encourage each of you to apply what you have learned here to your lives, studies, and future careers,” Dr Masih shared.

He also urged students, “Continue to ask questions, seek solutions, and be the change you wish to see in the world. Let me end with a famous Egyptian proverb: “Tomorrow is in the womb of time.” As future leaders, the actions you take today will shape the world of tomorrow. Let’s ensure it is a world built on peace, dialogue, and understanding.”

On the second day of the conference, student delegates actively participated in heated debates and discussions. One of the delegates, Bikaas Das, a Class 12 student from Laxmi Public School, who represented Norway in the UNCSW, shared his experience, “The committee was very fast-paced today, and I had to research a lot due to the intensity of the discussions. I had two Moderated Caucuses (MODs) and my General Speakers’ List (GSL), as well as a press release to manage.”

Another student delegate, Harshita from Class 9 studying in Apeejay School, Saket, who represented Ireland in the UNGA, expressed how the event boosted her confidence, “It was a great experience. It helped me build confidence, and I absolutely loved being a part of it.”

Ravi Garg, the Vice Chairperson of the UNGA committee and a student of Apeejay School, Saket, mentioned that the discussions in his committee focused on collaboration and addressing economic inequalities. He highlighted, “The key points revolved around solutions like wealth redistribution and progressive taxation to bridge the rich-poor gap.”

The closing ceremony was marked by speeches, performances, and the much-anticipated awards ceremony. The  ARCANE MUN’s Secretary General took the stage to express gratitude to all the delegates and organising team for their efforts. Next, the audience enjoyed a captivating band performance by students of Apeejay School, Saket. The musical piece was met with enthusiastic applause, creating a celebratory atmosphere in the auditorium.

The much-anticipated awards ceremony followed, where delegates were recognised for their outstanding performances across various committees. Categories such as Special Mentions, High Commendations, Best Delegate, and Honourable Mentions were presented. The Best School Delegation award was given to Laxmi Public School for their remarkable participation. Verbal Mentions were also acknowledged during the ceremony.

To conclude the ceremony, Divisha Arora, the Director General of ARCANE MUN, who is studying in class 12 at Apeejay School, Saket, addressed the gathering and expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all the participants, the organising committee, and the esteemed guests. She declared the conference officially closed and encouraged the students to carry forward the spirit of collaboration and diplomacy they had experienced over the two days.

The event came to a close with the singing of the National Anthem, followed by a dance party where students celebrated the success of ARCANE MUN 2024 with energy and excitement.