INTRODUCTION

The Nigerian International Secondary Schools Model United Nations (NISSMUN) Conference is an annual educational program designed to provide senior secondary school students across Nigeria and abroad with an unparalleled opportunity to simulate the workings of the United Nations, providing the students with a unique opportunity to engage in diplomatic discourse, debate, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving. NISSMUN aims to inspire the next generation of leaders, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to address pressing global issues.

Key Features of NISSMUN:

  1. i) Realistic Simulation: NISSMUN offers a realistic simulation of the United Nations, allowing students to step into the shoes of diplomats, engage in debate, and work towards crafting impactful resolutions.
  2. ii) Inclusive Participation: We welcome students from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment that encourages the exchange of perspectives and ideas.

iii) Educational Impact: NISSMUN goes beyond traditional classroom learning, providing an experiential education that enhances students’ understanding of international relations, diplomacy, and the complexities of global issues.

  1. iv) Networking Opportunities: Participants will have the chance to connect with like-minded peers, build a network of contacts, and engage with experienced professionals in the field of international relations.

Why NISSMUN Matters: In an increasingly interconnected world, it is crucial to empower the youth with the skills and knowledge to become informed, responsible global citizens. NISSMUN serves as a stepping stone for students to develop leadership qualities, cultural awareness, and a deep understanding of the importance of collaboration on the world stage.

The theme for NISSMUN 2025 is: Enhancing Youth Financial Literacy to Reduce Mistrust and Social Unrest. Schools lay the foundation for future generations. Integrating financial literacy into early education equips youth with the skills to navigate today’s complex world. By enhancing financial literacy, young people gain the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions, build trust in financial systems, and contribute to a more stable and equitable society.

HOW MODEL UNITED NATIONS OPERATE

The basic principles of Model United Nations remain the same; regardless of where the conference is taking place:

  • Each delegate is assigned a UN Member State and a UN body or Committee, and he/she assumes the role of that country’s representative at that UN body or committee.
  • The delegate researches his/her country’s position on the selected committee topics, paying particular attention to their country’s perspective on the topics to be discussed at the Committee Sessions. The topics are issues of global importance.
  • The committee sessions are held in accordance with Rules of Procedure. The delegates present statements of their countries’ position then debate and negotiate with the other delegates, through formal and informal debates.
  • At the end of the whole debate and negotiation, a consensus is reached and a resolution is drafted. The drafted resolution is further scrutinized for possible amendments and finally adopted through the majority vote as the final RESOLUTION.

 

BENEFITS OF MODEL UNITED NATIONS TO STUDENTS

  • Model UN events provide active learning opportunities for delegates, allowing them to explore and analyze a situation affecting different people in unusual settings. They negotiate and reach a consensus on the best action for all, working individually and as part of a group. Delegates develop their communication skills and build their self-confidence.
  • Helps the students appreciate the relevance of academic study to real-world problems and utilize the skills learned through their school’s course curriculum or degrees.
  • Provides a multicultural learning experience, as it gives students the opportunity to meet others from diverse backgrounds and nationalities and helps them break out from their own prejudices and preconceptions about world affairs.
  • Instills responsibility and discipline as the students assume the role of ambassadors and speak out on behalf of nations in a bid to resolving issues.
  • The UN can be a difficult organization to grasp – it is not a world government, but a system of many organizations which together affect our lives in many ways. In order to influence the way in which the UN works, we must understand the UN – one way of doing this is by taking part in a Model UN event.
  • Model UN work not only educates participants about the problems the world is facing but also suggests the means by which progress can be made and problems resolved, peacefully and justly.

STUDENTS’ ELIGIBILITY

  • Students should be in Senior Secondary 1, 2 or 3.
  • They should understand the United Nations and its affairs.
  • Verified research skills and ability to comprehend research topics.
  • Effective communication skills.
  • Students should possess leadership qualities.
  • Students should be team players and eager to learn.
  • Students should be disciplined and smart.

HOW TO COMPLETE REGISTRATION FORM

  • The participating students are required to select any 3 countries of their choice from the country/committee matrix. (1 out of the 3 countries could be allocated to you based on availability)
  • Select any 3 committees of your choice from the country/committee matrix attached that you wish to simulate (1 out of the 3 committees could be allocated to you also depending on availability)
  • Ensure that the country chosen is a member of the committee selected as appropriately indicated in the country/committee matrix.

SPECIAL INFORMATION ON COUNTRY/COMMITTEE SELECTION AND ASSIGNMENT

It is important to note that we cannot guarantee that each student will be assigned the country/committee of his or her choice. Certain criteria may result in a change in delegate’s choice. Some of which are:

  • Most countries are allocated on first-come, first-served basis. Delegates are therefore encouraged to send in their application forms early.
  • Essays are rated according to performance. The best essays will receive awards.

***     Students who apply to sit on the s Council should be of academic excellence and possess good public presentation and analytical skills. Accompanying staff should please assist us in this regard.

REQUIREMENT FOR PARTICIPATION

 All Senior Secondary School Students and schools are eligible to register and participate in the conference. Schools can enlist as many students as they want.

  • Registration –
  • Registration begins NOVEMBER 25, 2024, and ends MARCH 3, 2025. Late registration by Delegates, Conference Officials, or Accompanying Staff from March 3 – May 31, 2025, will lead to 10% surcharge. Subsequent late registration, from June 2 – July 30, 2025 will lead to 20% surcharge, and from August 1 – 30, 2025 will lead to 30% surcharge.

 

  • NigMUNS will not make any refund of payment from two months before the conference.

 

  • If there is need to replace any Student Delegate, Conference Official or Accompanying Staff after registration, an administrative fee of N5,000 will be required.

 

  • BASIC CONFERENCE INFORMATION:
  • Registration Deadline –

All applications and payments of conference fee must be received on or before MARCH 3, 2025.

NOTE: Registration forms must be returned with one (1) passport photograph, mandatory essays, and evidence of payment of conference fee.

  • Acceptance of Application –

 

Students who have been accepted to participate at NISSMUN 2025 will be notified on or before APRIL 4, 2025.

  • Compulsory Essays –

A compulsory essay on “Enhancing Youth Financial Literacy to Reduce Mistrust and Social Unrest” is to be submitted by each delegate. These materials must be delivered on or before MARCH 3, 2025.

  • Position Papers –

 All accepted delegates are expected to individually submit their countries Position Papers on or before AUGUST 4, 2025. Note: that the position paper is different from the mandatory essay.

 

  • Arrival / Departure –
  1. Delegates are expected to arrive from 10 am on the 25th October, 2025 and depart on or before 11am on the 30th October, 2025.
  2. Officials will arrive on Friday 24th October, 2025 and depart on 31st October, 2025.

 

CONFERENCE THEME

Enhancing Youth Financial Literacy to Reduce Mistrust and Social Unrest

In recent years, we have witnessed a surge of young people taking to the streets to voice their concerns and demand action. From climate change to social justice, from educational reforms to economic equality, the youth are making their voices heard loud and clear. This unprecedented level of engagement signals a growing discontent with the status quo and a desire for an equitable, just, and sustainable future.

While the issues prompting these protests are varied, there is a common thread that ties many of them together: economic disenfranchisement. Many young people today feel unprepared and overwhelmed by the financial challenges they face. This economic frustration fuels their activism and highlights a critical gap in our education systems—financial literacy.

Financial literacy is not just about managing money; it is about understanding the systems and structures that shape our economies. It is about providing young people with the tools they need to make informed decisions, plan for their futures, and contribute positively to their communities. When young people understand how financial systems work, they are more likely to trust those systems and engage constructively within them. This trust is essential for maintaining social harmony and fostering a sense of shared responsibility.

Schools are uniquely positioned to provide essential financial education. With students spending much of their time in educational settings, schools are the ideal environment to introduce and reinforce financial concepts. Integrating financial literacy into the curriculum allows students to learn through age-appropriate lessons and practical applications, building a strong foundation of financial knowledge that grows with them.

Financially literate youth are more likely to become responsible citizens who contribute positively to society. They understand the importance of financial stability not just for themselves but also for their communities and economies at large, which fosters a sense of civic duty and collective responsibility.

Imagine a world where every young person understands the fundamentals of budgeting, saving, investing, and managing credit. A world where they are not only aware of the financial opportunities available to them but are also confident in seizing them. Such a world would be one of greater economic stability and less social unrest—a world where youth are active participants in the economy, not marginalized by it.

By investing in financial literacy, we invest in the stability and prosperity of our society. We create a generation that is informed, empowered, and capable of making decisions that will benefit not only themselves but also their communities and the world at large.

BENEFITS TO PARTICIPATING STUDENTS

Students stand to benefit greatly from NISSMUN 2025. Here are some key benefits they can expect:

  1. Enhanced Financial Knowledge: Students will gain valuable insights into financial concepts and practices, which will help them understand economic systems, personal finance, and budgeting, laying a foundation for financial literacy.
  2. Critical Thinking Skills: Through debate and discussion, students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills, learning to evaluate and address complex economic issues that impact society.
  3. Improved Communication Skills: Participating in the MUN conference will enhance students’ public speaking, negotiation, and diplomacy skills as they articulate their positions and collaborate with peers.
  4. Increased Awareness of Economic Impact: Students will better understand how economic policies and financial decisions affect social stability and contribute to reducing mistrust and unrest within their communities.
  5. Global Perspective: The conference will provide students with a broader view of how financial literacy and economic issues are addressed globally, fostering a deeper appreciation for international cooperation and diverse perspectives.
  6. Leadership and Teamwork: Engaging in Model United Nations simulations will help students develop leadership qualities and teamwork abilities, essential for future careers and community involvement.
  7. Enhanced Problem-Solving Abilities: Students will tackle real-world problems related to financial literacy and social unrest, honing their ability to propose and implement effective solutions.
  8. Networking Opportunities: The conference will offer students the chance to connect with peers, educators, and professionals interested in financial literacy and social issues, creating valuable networks for future collaborations.
  9. Empowerment and Agency: By participating in discussions on economic policies and social issues, students will feel empowered to influence change and advocate for financial literacy in their communities.
  10. Preparation for Future Challenges: The skills and knowledge gained will prepare students to navigate and address economic challenges in their personal lives and contribute positively to society.

GOALS & OBJECTIVES OF NISSMUN 2025 CONFERENCE

Goals

  1. Increase Financial Literacy among Youth: Equip young people with essential financial knowledge and skills to improve their understanding of economic systems and personal finance.
  2. Reduce Mistrust: Address and diminish the mistrust between young people and financial institutions or economic policies by ensuring that youth have accurate and relevant information about how these systems operate.
  3. Mitigate Social Unrest: Address the root causes of social unrest by empowering youth with the tools to manage their financial futures and reduce economic-related grievances.
  4. Advance Understanding: Deepen participants’ understanding of how financial literacy impacts social trust and stability, focusing on its role in reducing mistrust and social unrest.
  5. Promote Constructive Engagement: Encourage active and informed participation from youth in economic decision-making processes, contributing to more inclusive and effective policy-making.
  6. Foster Dialogue: Facilitate meaningful dialogue among students, educators, and policymakers on strategies to enhance youth financial literacy and address economic challenges.
  7. Promote Solutions: Develop actionable recommendations and strategies for integrating financial education into school curricula and community programs.
  8. Empower Youth: Equip young people with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed financial decisions and advocate for economic policies that reflect their needs and aspirations.

Objective


  1. Raise Awareness: Increase awareness among students and stakeholders about the connection between financial literacy, mistrust, and social unrest.

    2. Educational Integration: Identify and propose effective methods for integrating financial literacy into existing educational frameworks and extracurricular activities.

    3. Policy Recommendations: Formulate and present policy recommendations aimed at enhancing financial literacy programs and addressing the broader socio-economic issues affecting youth.

    4. Best Practices: Share successful case studies and best practices from different regions and organizations to provide a model for effective financial education initiatives.

    5. Action Plan Development: Create a comprehensive action plan that outlines steps for implementing financial literacy programs at the local, national, and international levels.

    6. Youth Engagement: Encourage active participation and leadership among youth in advocating for improved financial education and addressing economic issues in their communities

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