Fostering public speaking and global awareness in schools through MUNs

Declamation and debate play a crucial role in holistic education, fostering the development of public speaking, critical thinking, and persuasive abilities. Platforms like Model United Nations (MUN) conferences provide invaluable opportunities for students to refine their communication skills, articulate ideas with clarity and confidence, and engage thoughtfully with pressing global issues.

At one such MUN, Kaizen 2024 hosted by Apeejay School Pitampura, Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park’s students shine – from Special Mention-Swarnim Prabhat (UNGA Committee) to Verbal Mention-Vihaan Khanna (UNGA Committee) to Rapporteur-Abbas Hasnain (UNGA Committee), these students exhibited their speaking skills and global knowledge.

Swarnim, a student from class VIII embarked on his MUN journey this year and received the ‘Special Mention’ award. He participated in several MUN conferences. His interest in geopolitics and present global crises fueled his passion for MUNs, where he found a platform to propose solutions to pressing world issues. When he finally got the chance to participate in an actual MUN, he eagerly embraced the opportunity with his parents’ support. This first experience solidified his interest.

“I spoke on the topic: Disturbances Caused by Non-State Actors with Special Emphasis on the Middle East and represented Japan. As a delegate of Japan, I presented opening speeches that outlined solutions and emphasised Japan’s stance on the agenda,” Swarnim said that showcased the analytical and problem-solving abilities he learnt at the school.

Public speaking and debating were the two most valuable skills he developed through MUNs. These are essential life skills that help confidently present ideas and respond to questions. “The MUNs provided a platform to practice and refine these abilities, which are crucial for personal and professional growth. I would advise all students to participate in MUNs, regardless of what their aspirations are,” Swarnim said.

Vihaan, a class XI student who got a ‘Verbal Mention’ award, represented Switzerland. He embraced the challenge of portraying the country’s neutral stance. “MUNs play an important role for a student. It instils confidence, public speaking, and understanding of global policies, especially those of Switzerland.

“Listening to others’ speeches can inspire and improve one’s contributions. It has also enhanced my social skills, global awareness, and academic abilities, particularly in English and general knowledge. This valuable exposure will help me realise my dream of joining the Air Force. The exposure to current affairs, world politics, and UN operations aligns with the general knowledge requirements for exams like NDA and AFCAT,” Vihaan said.

Abbas, a class XI student who has chosen Physics, Chemistry, and Math with Computer Science as an additional subject and aspiring to become an IAS officer, shared that MUNs exposed him to diplomacy, negotiation, and critical thinking about complex global issues.

“I learnt to view problems from multiple perspectives and appreciated the role of diplomacy in addressing world challenges. These experiences have helped me develop skills and prepared me for Civil Services goals. My knowledge of world affairs, understanding of global diplomacy, and ability to tackle complex issues will aid me in drafting policies and addressing administrative challenges. I see this as a foundation for his future in governance and policy-making,” he said.

Explaining his role as a rapporteur in the MUN, the MUN simulates a United Nations committee where delegates communicate through written chits. The rapporteur’s work is to handle chits, marking them for relevance and clarity. “Additionally, in the absence of senior board members like the chairperson or vice-chairperson, a rapporteur may step in to moderate the committee,” Abbas shared and added that the first-time experience as a rapporteur was both nerve-wracking and enriching.

Gaining insights into marking, moderating a committee, and analysing delegate inputs was an eye-opener and credited his chairperson and vice-chairperson for their guidance, which enhanced his understanding of behind-the-scenes processes. This role taught him valuable skills in analysis, research, and diplomacy.

His advice for future rapporteurs? Stay calm and confident; maintain good communication with the chairperson and vice-chairperson, diligently marking content, and fostering a positive atmosphere in the committee.

Highlighting the support he received from Apeejay School, Abbas said that he has actively participated in MUNs since class IX. “My school has provided logistical support and training sessions for participants, enabling me to excel in such events,” Abbas said in conclusion.