Algoma University successfully hosted its inaugural Model United Nations (MUN), a two-day conference designed for local high school delegates and led entirely by Algoma students on the Sault Ste. Marie campus.
The MUN was organized by Algoma University students in the Law and Politics Student Society (LPSS), in collaboration with the Shingwauk Anishinaabe Students' Association (SASA). Delegates from the White Pines Collegiate and Vocational and Korah Collegiate and Vocational schools took on the roles of global representatives, engaging in debates and solution-focused discussions on real-world Indigenous issues. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) served as a springboard for meaningful committee sessions and learning.
The event began with a virtual Truth Walk led by Serena Hill, Specialist, Community Engagement at Algoma University, and Denyse Johnson, Dynamic Educator and Gikindemowin Gikinoo'amaagewikwe at Sault College, grounding delegates in respect, reflection, and shared learning.
"I am inspired by the dedication, hard work and professionalism our students, including the LPSS and SASA Executive, brought to this initiative," said Dr. Monika Thakur, Algoma University MUN faculty advisor, and Department of Law and Politics Assistant Professor. "Organizing this inaugural conference for high school students required exceptional skills in outreach, logistics, research, teamwork, training and conference planning. Our students have consistently risen to the challenge, with maturity and vision."
During the conference, delegates examined topics including health care, education, social services for Indigenous communities, and the impacts of climate change. Through active debate and diplomacy, they developed actionable resolutions to address these pressing issues.
Looking ahead, the LPSS aims to make the Algoma University MUN an annual event, empowering the next generation of changemakers to engage thoughtfully with pressing global issues while giving back to the Sault Ste. Marie community.
This initiative was made possible with financial support from the LPSS and SASA, with support from Dr. Trevor Tchir and Dr. Monika Thakur from the Department of Law and Politics.
For testimonials from this event, please click here.
