This week, 13 students from the Critical Debate co-curricular at Institut auf dem Rosenberg are preparing to step into one of the world’s most esteemed academic settings – Oxford University – for the 2025 Model United Nations Conference. Over the course of three days, the students will engage in high-level debate, sharpen their negotiation and public speaking skills, and collaborate with peers from around the world to address pressing global issues. This experience is set to challenge them to think critically, develop leadership skills, and gain insight into international diplomacy, all while representing their school on a global stage. With the support and guidance of their Artisans, Mr. Hunt, Mr. Stainton, and Mr. Mahor, they have dedicated the past few weeks to research, preparation, and refining their arguments ahead of this weekend. Their time in Oxford is set to follow an impressive itinerary, designed to immerse them in both intellectual challenge and the university’s rich academic tradition.
The conference begins this Friday, 7th February, with the Opening Ceremony at the Oxford University Catholic Chaplaincy, a historic institution at the heart of the university. Delegates will take part in intensive training sessions on parliamentary procedure and debate strategy before heading to St Anne’s and St Antony’s Colleges for their first committee session. These historic colleges provide an inspiring backdrop for diplomatic discussions. Saturday will be dedicated to committee sessions at St Anne’s and St Antony’s Colleges, where students will take part in negotiations and workshops designed to refine their diplomacy, critical thinking, and leadership skills. The evening will provide a unique highlight – a Delegate Social at the Oxford Natural History Museum. Amidst the historic artefacts and grand architecture, students will have the opportunity to network with peers from around the world, exchanging ideas in an environment that embodies intellectual curiosity and discovery. The final committee session on Sunday morning will see students finalising their points and delivering concluding arguments. The conference is set to conclude with a Closing Ceremony at the Sheldonian Theatre, one of Oxford’s most iconic venues, renowned for hosting some of the university’s most distinguished academic events. Standing in this historic setting will no doubt be a memorable moment for all of the students, immersing themselves in the academic tradition of Oxford, an environment that has shaped some of history’s greatest minds. We wish all of the partaking students the very best of luck this weekend from all of us here on campus!
