MUN, or Model United Nations, has been an MYP enrichment program and a DP extracurricular activity at SIS for numerous years, with the goal of preparing students by teaching them to debate the same way professional and international diplomats do. This Friday, January 30th, SIS will host its annual SISMUN conference, where all students in Norra Latin are required to attend to debate topics and give them the opportunity to get an insight into how the diplomatic and political, especially international relations, fields work.
Seated in the top student position on the board is Chiara F. The Secretary General has been engaged with MUN since 6th grade, and says that it is a wonderful way of building confidence, learning to speak up and practising real-life skills such as “teamwork, problem-solving and negotiation” – not forgetting to mention how fun and enjoyable the debate really is once you get going.
Ryan X. has been involved in MUN since Grade seven, making this his sixth year in the program and resulting in the well-deserved achievement of being under-secretary general. Over the course of the years, he has learned the importance of it, and claims that “[it] is rather important because of its spontaneity in debate that helps a student develop a sense of critical thinking and adaptability” .
The two board members are conscious about the importance of MUN as a part of the educational system in our school, and both were very enthusiastic about the benefits of participating, even as a purely mandatory task. While debating serious issues can be a difficult task and feels like a leap outside of many students’ comfort zones, both top board members see eye to eye on the fact that it is a massive help in developing public speaking skills, critical thinking, and adaptability. Chiara F. says that “it’s one of those experiences that really pushes you but makes you grow at the same time.” The under-Secretary General elaborates on the personal and academic progress it can spark, as it “helps you approach problems from different perspectives” , a skill much needed in the contemporary society we live in today.
The selection process for choosing the most suitable topics for the different committees is complex. With the underlying knowledge of there being a vast number of students who do not particularly enjoy participating in the MUN debates, they try to focus on connecting to current global affairs and events, such as this year’s focus on defence, economic policies and wealth gaps. Keeping in mind the importance of making sure “everyone feels like they can jump in and actually enjoy the discussions,” Chiara F. tells us the balance in combining heavy subject matters with enjoyable areas of discussion.
MUN is inevitably a day when the absences will significantly increase in comparison to a regular school day. It seems to be a recurring pattern where many students coincidentally have their doctors’ check-ups or passport renewal appointments during this event. Regardless of the number of present students on the day, the team must work around the potential issue and create a plan that is adaptable for all situations. Chiara F. shared that this day “is not about attendance — it’s about giving everyone the chance to try something different and step out of their comfort zone. Once people join in, they usually realise how enjoyable it actually is.” It has almost become a tradition where every year, parents and students receive an email from the high school and middle school principals, informing them that this is a crucial part of the students’ academics and that it is mandatory to attend, yet this message hasn’t entirely kicked in yet.
So what are the future visions for SISMUN? Chiara F. informs us that they are with an increased focus on developing interactive and overall enjoyable experiences of the MUN debates. The two of them also agree on one thing: it’s growing. Not only has the committee team grown over the past year in size, but also in student maturity. At the upcoming conference, our school will be the home base for additional guests from abroad, and Ryan X. shares the hope that the international SISMUN can expand even further.
We are hoping that this year’s 2026 SISMUN will be a grand success for all students, regardless of their interest in International relations and debating. Remember that this event develops skills that are crucial in your everyday lives, making it extremely fulfilling for your education! Keep an eye out for the live articles being published on Friday, January 30th by QQ reporters and editors who will be writing and filming content the entire day.
