Fifteen dedicated students from BISS Puxi set off early on the morning of Friday 6 March, travelling across Shanghai from Minhang to Pudong for the final Model United Nations conference of the academic year: Wellington MUN. Leaving campus early, the group, a fantastic mix of new delegates attending their first conference and experienced participants, showed impressive commitment as they prepared to represent a range of countries across multiple committees.
During the opening ceremony, the headmaster referenced the famous words of Winston Churchill: “Jaw, jaw, not war, war.” He reminded students that diplomacy and dialogue remain the most powerful tools for resolving conflict. In an age of rapidly advancing technology and increasing reliance on AI, he also delivered a particularly poignant message: encouraging delegates to remember that every representative in the room is a real human being - someone with ideas, emotions and perspectives worth listening to.
Over the two days of the conference, our students demonstrated remarkable dedication, willingly giving up their weekend to take part. Across sessions held on Friday and Saturday, the BISS contingent debated complex global issues in committees including the General Assembly, ECOSOC, the Security Council, and the Historical Security Council. Representing countries such as the United Kingdom, Turkey, Egypt, Panama, Tanzania, and Latvia, they tackled topics ranging from educational inequality and cybercrime to humanitarian crises and environmental governance.
The conference provided an excellent opportunity for our students to develop their public speaking, diplomacy, and critical thinking skills whilst collaborating with peers from other international schools across Shanghai. Whether attending their first MUN or building on previous experience, all delegates rose to the challenge, demonstrating confidence, resilience, and a strong spirit of global citizenship. The closing ceremony was a moment of great pride for our delegation, as several of our students received special recognition. We were thrilled to see Abril awarded Best Delegate, whilst Rex and Maciej earned Honourable Mentions. Further celebrating our delegation's growth, Jihu and Reuben were named Most Improved Delegates.
These photos capture more than just moments from a successful conference; they reflect the confidence, curiosity and courage that grow through Model United Nations. For our current Year 6 students, this could be the start of your own journey. Junior MUN offers the chance to find your voice, explore real-world issues and learn how respectful dialogue can shape change. We look forward to welcoming the next generation of delegates who are ready to speak up, think globally, and take their first steps as young diplomats in Junior MUN next year.
Ms. Ogechi Osedumme and Mrs. Doshila Neergheen, MUN Directors
