At the weekend, CATS Cambridge hosted seven schools for a Model United Nations (MUN) conference. We were delighted to welcome returning delegations and new participants. The dynamic, engaged group of students fostered an intellectually stimulating and culturally enriching experience.
Opening Ceremony
Similarly to the United Nations General Assembly, the CATS Cambridge MUN Conference began with an opening ceremony. Mr. Philip Harwood, CATS Cambridge Senior Deputy Head and Dr. Shahid Sayed, MUN Club Co-Organiser and Head of Business Studies and Economics, delivered an interesting opening address on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They emphasized the critical role of global collaboration in tackling contemporary challenges.
Delegates also watched a recorded message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who encouraged them to “be a force of positive change” and use their MUN experiences to cultivate the leadership skills necessary for global impact. This powerful message reminded delegates that MUN prepares them to be the next generation of world-shapers.
Committees and Debates
The CATS Cambridge MUN Conference 2025 featured four committees, each dedicated to addressing pressing global concerns:
- UN General Assembly: Addressing Global Food Insecurity and Malnutrition
- UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC): Improving Access to Quality Education in Conflict Zones
- UN Environment Assembly (UNEA): Reducing Plastic Pollution in Marine Environments
- UN Security Council: Addressing the Impact of Climate Change on Displaced Populations
Delegates assumed the roles of UN member states representatives. They engaged in rigorous discussions and negotiations and worked collaboratively on policymaking. Throughout the committee sessions, students were required to articulate their arguments persuasively, navigate complex diplomatic discussions, and defend their member states’ stance with conviction. Their well-researched positions, combined with fresh perspectives, led to a series of dynamic, insightful, and solution-driven debates.
“At CATS Cambridge, I received a lot of support with my university application process. They helped with all of the details we need for UCAS.”
Ihor from Ukraine
“CATS Cambridge helped me a lot with studying and with learning... which prepared me for university. The education back home is not as good as in the UK and there are a lot of opportunities that I can achieve after finishing my degree.”
Conference Awards and Recognition
The conference concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding performances and contributions from participating delegates.
Student Reflections
This was an incredible experience that deepened my understanding of diplomacy, leadership, and international relations.
Enea, UFP Student
I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking debates and collaborate on real-world solutions.
Daryna, A Level Student
The CATS Cambridge MUN Conference 2025 was a success for all involved. Students had the opportunity to experience what multilateral diplomacy and global problem-solving is like at the United Nations. Delegates showcased exceptional public speaking, negotiation, and research skills, while also demonstrating empathy, adaptability, and diplomatic acumen.
Dr. Sayed and Dr. Machado, co-organizers of the CATS Cambridge MUN Club, reflected on the event, stating:
“It was truly inspiring to witness students engaging in meaningful dialogues about global issues. The level of dedication, collaboration, and intellectual depth was outstanding.”
The CATS Cambridge MUN Club looks forward to participating in and hosting more conferences. Stay tuned for more updates on their achievements and future endeavours.
