In September, our Model UN team proudly attended the George Watson’s College Model UN conference, representing the USA, Mexico and Vietnam.

For many of our pupils, this was their very first day conference, and they rose to the challenge with confidence and enthusiasm. Throughout the event, delegates worked hard to apply the diplomacy, public speaking and negotiation skills they’ve been developing in our co-curricular club.

The conference began with a Q&A session with MSP Daniel Johnson and Independent MSP Jeremy Balfour, who highlighted the complexities of the refugee crisis and how it has contributed to social and political division. Both stressed the need for open, respectful dialogue, a theme delegates carried into their sessions. Pupils then engaged deeply in a range of committees, tackling topics such as the ethics of genetic engineering in de-extinction, the impact of air pollution on global health, and the human rights concerns surrounding forced deportations.

They embraced the chance to represent different national perspectives and propose meaningful solutions. Throughout, they honed critical thinking, empathy and a strong appreciation for the complexity of global diplomacy. Despite a challenging General Assembly for the USA, delegates sustained reasoned arguments, and three of our pupils achieved prizes.

Congratulations to Shawna (S6), who was Commended in the Health Committee representing Mexico; Vaibhav (S6), who was Highly Commended in the Security Council representing the USA; and Eesha (S5), who was awarded Best Delegate in the Human Rights Committee representing Mexico.