Students from the local area address global challenges at Model United Nations conference

Area high school students engaged in global issues at the annual Model United Nations event hosted by the Simcoe County District School Board Education Centre in Midhurst on Tuesday. The event, now in its 35th year, saw students debating topics such as rare earth mineral mining, transnational organized crime, and mental health.

Over 150 students from nine SCDSB secondary schools participated in the event, with each student representing a different country and debating their country’s stance on the issues in small regional groups and in a general assembly of delegates.

Parker Smith, representing Argentina, proposed a plan in support of rare earth elements to bring economic growth to developing countries. Despite not getting passed by the assembly, Smith found the experience valuable for his future aspirations in politics.

Max Nykoliation, representing Australia, highlighted the importance of the event in helping students become better speakers and understand how the world works. Rachel Wagniere, representing Sweden, enjoyed stepping into another country’s perspective and debating relevant global issues.

Head co-ordinator of the event, history teacher Rob Howatson, emphasized the importance of students having fun, learning about the world, and becoming engaged, active citizens on a global scale. The Model United Nations event provided students with a platform to develop their skills and broaden their understanding of global issues, preparing them for future endeavors in politics and beyond.