University of Alberta High School Model United Nations

The University of Alberta High School Model United Nations (HSMUN) is an educational, three day United Nations simulation that is planned, organized, and carried out by over 60 University of Alberta students. HSMUN provides a learning opportunity for high school students to develop a nuanced understanding of diplomacy and international goodwill. Valuable volunteer and leadership opportunities are also presented through the annual conference and training sessions leading up to the conference. Volunteer training begins around early October and continues every few weeks until the annual conference. During the 3 day conference, 600 plus high school delegates discuss geopolitical issues, listen to keynote speakers, refine their debate skills, and experience diplomacy in action. The core purpose of this conference is to help youth gain a better understanding of UN procedures, critically engage with relevant issues, refine their public speaking abilities, and understand the complexities of real world events. On the first day, the high school delegates are directed to their registered committees, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), in order to debate on topics relevant to each committee. There are twelve committees this year which include (1) WHO, (2) Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC), (3) Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee (SOCHUM), (4) Legal, (5) Organization of American States (OAS), (6) United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), (7) Press, (8) Security Council, (9) Historical Security Council, (10) Futuristic Security Council, (11) G20, and (12) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). After the delegates are checked in, an opening ceremony begins which includes a keynote address from an invited speaker. Once finished, all the delegates proceed into opening debate within each of their respective committees and debates continue for the following days. The second day also includes a banquet event at a predetermined banquet hall where more invited keynote speakers present, dinner is served, and delegates can dance. On the final day, delegates vote on resolutions and close debate which is followed by a closing ceremony celebrating the conference and acknowledge the commitment of all the volunteers, teachers, sponsors, keynote speakers, and delegates.

Students are exposed to global and local role models such as MLA Janis Irwin, Chancellor Peggy Garritty, former Governor General, The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, and Lieutenant-General (retd), The Honourable Roméo A. Dallaire. Incorporating excellent speakers allows participants to learn about the lived experiences of these prominent leaders in International Affairs. HSMUN is also the first point of exposure to a serious study of international issues beyond the classroom for many students, providing a glimpse into international diplomacy from the perspective of a government representative. Through this conference, they become more aware of worldwide issues as well as increase their competence in dealing with conflict in their personal lives and careers. In addition, students are able to practice public speaking, which is especially important as such experiences have become increasingly scarce in traditional classroom settings. Valuable volunteer and leadership opportunities are also presented through the rigorous training leading up to the annual conference. All training materials are designed, implemented, and improved upon by a long lineage of dedicated executives who ensure that the conference is the best it can be.  With collaborative topic write-ups and enthusiastic debate practice, HSMUN was able to deliver a high caliber three-day conference with incredible attendance this past year. 

HSMUN continues to provide numerous benefits to the University of Alberta and Edmonton. This organization thrives from the dedication and care crafted by all undergraduate volunteers, high school students, teachers, sponsors, keynote speakers, and community members. As a result, HSMUN is confident in producing excellent professional development skills, community engagement, and valuable experiences for each participant.