Two Lower Sixth boys were thrilled to recently represent Nigeria at COP28 at the Oxford International Model United Nations conference held in the Oxford University Examinations Hall.
Tanay Rai, who is studying the IB Programme (Maths, Economics and Spanish at Higher Level and Biology, Geography and English at Standard Level) and Millan Verwoert who is studying English, Latin, Politics and History at A-Level, were instrumental in setting up the Bedford School MUN Conference back in April 2023, and this was their first taste of Model UN.
Read Boys and Girls Come Together for Model UN Conference
The idea of setting up a Model UN in school came about as the boys wanted to create more opportunities to get involved in debating international issues and policies. With the help of Miss Rattab, they galvanised over 30 boys and, together with girls from Bedford Girls’ School, they formed the school’s first Model UN. Working together with Bedford Girls’ School’s already successful MUN Society, the boys went on to debate at other MUN Conferences at Bedford Modern School and Kimbolton School, which whet their appetite for the Oxford MUN, which, after successfully applying, they were invited to represent Nigeria.
The Oxford International Model United Nations (OXMUN) conference brings together delegates from different countries and backgrounds to debate pressing global issues and listen to illustrious guest speakers, providing participants with an academically rigorous and culturally rich experience that is unlike any other.
Tanay kindly wrote an account of his amazing experience:
“OXMUN was an amazing experience that helped me develop my global mindset and communication skills. During the conference Millan and I represented Nigeria at COP28, and the conference was centred around Carbon Offsetting and Greenwashing. With over 100 delegates from all over the world in our conference and over 50 countries represented, it was a brilliant opportunity to network with people from all over the world! We met people from India, Denmark and even Peru! It was clear from the start that some of the students in our conference were incredibly talented with years of MUN experience under their belts. This gave Millan and I the chance to learn from them. We were both able to put our public speaking skills to the test, by giving speeches. We both agreed it was one of the most nerve-wracking things we have done! After almost 10 hours of debating, arguing, planning and agreeing, no resolution was met. Regardless, we made many friends for life and can’t wait to attend next year. A special thanks must go to Miss Rattab who expertly managed the whole trip and helped us with many aspects of our MUN skills. As a former Oxford graduate, she was able to give us all the inside information about the institute. Also, a thanks to Mr Palmer who supervised the trip.”