Pupils from 11 prep schools came to Bryanston for a lively day of debate, diplomacy and international problem-solving as part of the Bryanston Mini-Model United Nations (Mini-MUN).
Hosted by Bryanston Sixth Form IB pupils as part of their CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) programme, the event gave younger pupils the chance to experience the workings of the United Nations first-hand, representing countries and tackling some of the biggest issues facing the world today.
Delegates from Ballard, Bryanston Prep, Castle Court, Dumpton, Hanford, Port Regis, Sandroyd, Thomas’ Battersea, Twyford and Westbourne House took part in morning and afternoon committee sessions.
Across three committees, pupils debated geopolitical tensions in the polar regions, gender equality in education and global food inequality. The standard of debate was exceptionally high, with delegates demonstrating an impressive understanding of their countries’ positions and putting forward well-researched and persuasive arguments.
Bryanston’s Sixth Form pupils acted as committee chairs and facilitators throughout the day, guiding proceedings, encouraging debate and helping the younger delegates navigate the rules and conventions of Model UN.
The afternoon brought a crisis scenario. Delegates were told that a highly advanced artificial intelligence network, ‘Project Aether’, had gone rogue, attacking the European power grid, an Asian shipping hub and global communications satellites.
Countries had to respond quickly working together to contain the threat, considering the legal rights of artificial intelligence and developing ways to support those affected by the attacks. Alliances rapidly formed along different ‘bloc’ lines before delegates came together in the UN General Assembly to debate their proposed solutions.
As can sometimes be the case at the real United Nations, no final agreement was reached, but the crisis generated imaginative proposals and some excellent discussion.
Model United Nations is an educational simulation in which pupils take on the roles of international delegates, representing the policies and interests of different countries. Alongside developing pupils’ understanding of global affairs, it builds valuable skills in public speaking, debating, negotiation, research and teamwork.
The day was also a fantastic example of collaboration between Bryanston’s Senior and Prep pupils, with the Sixth Form chairs earning particular praise for the confidence and professionalism with which they led the sessions.
Well done to everyone who took part.
