Lakshmipat Singhania Academy hosted its 7th annual edition of Model United Nations bringing together a worldview of ideas and opinions from a talented group of delegates from several schools across Kolkata.
The three-day conference which started on 27th September was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Mr Pradeep Guptoo, Secretary, Calcutta Debate Circle. "Most of the problems in the post-pandemic world require intense debating and discussions, tempered with a sense of compromise. Without this, it will be very difficult to grapple with the world as it stands stiff on us”, stated Mr Guptoo.
Elucidating further on the importance of debates, Meena Kak, director of LSA said, “MUN in schools allow students to develop confidence and leadership skills through experience. Children use this opportunity to practice research, public speaking, teamwork, negotiation, and writing skills in a safe and structured environment.”
Chief Guest Shri Pradeep Gooptu being welcomed by the school's Vice Principal, Ms. Jaya Misra Source: Lakshmipat Singhania Academy
The debates included agendas like the South China Sea Conflict, NATO's role in the current Geopolitical scenario, and security threats in the Middle East. The students from Calcutta International School, The Heritage School, Don Bosco, Park Circus, etc debated various diplomatic bilateral agendas of international policy.
The LSAMUN concluded on 29September with a closing ceremony where deserving delegates received awards. Calcutta International School won the Best Delegation award, and St. James received the Outstanding Delegation award.
Day one of ASEAN started with a heated debate on ‘The recent updates in the South China Sea’. This was followed by a comprehensive open floor discussion and debates on day 2.
The Best Delegate in this category was awarded to Prakhar Drolia (People’s Republic of China) – Calcutta International School. Meanwhile, Kushal Taparia (Philippines) of St. Xavier’s Collegiate School won the Outstanding Delegate award.
Additionally, the NATO committee debated on ‘The Reemergence of War in Europe’, where agendas were ‘Russia Ukraine Conflict; and the ‘Maritime Disputes’. The Best Delegate award was received by Shubhraneil Ganguly, Calcutta International School and the Outstanding Delegate was awarded to Aryan Ghosh of St. James’ School.
Furthermore, the UNSC committee witnessed discussions on agendas like- ‘the problem of Jerusalem’ and ‘Syria-Yemen Conflict’.
The joint best award was received by Russia: Birla High School: Ram Daftari and Kannv Dhandhania; Palestine: St. James’ School: Avinash Rai and Krish Roy Burman. Meanwhile, the Outstanding Delegate went to Syria: The Heritage School: Raunak Mukherjee and Banhi Sen.
IPC committee at the LSAMUN '22 witnessed delegates representing various news agencies and their stances on the agenda– ‘Influence of Media on the Russia Ukraine Crisis.’ Delegates were also allocated specific committees such as the NATO, UNSC and the ASEAN and were expected to cover the happenings for crafting their articles. Additionally, they had to submit an Op-Ed article to complement their main article.
Rafeey Aziz of Birla High School who represented Reuters received the Best Delegate title, for his exemplary reporting and immaculate articles. Meanwhile, the Outstanding Delegate was awarded to Ukrinform, Yash Beriwal, St. James’ School.
The LSA MUN was indeed a huge hit among the Kolkata school circuit, especially after a gap of 2 years due to the pandemic.