In a momentous grand opening ceremony on July 28, 2023, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Naveen Patnaik officially declared the 11th edition of SAIMUN (Model United Nations) open with great enthusiasm. This splendid global gathering witnessed an impressive convergence of over 700 delegates representing 10 diverse nations, namely Sri Lanka, Uganda, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Bhutan, Kenya, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Mali, and India.
Enthusiastically participating in the SAIMUN sessions are prestigious schools from abroad including St. Andrew Kaggwa Gombe High School from Kawaala, Uganda, Gombe Junior School in Kikajjo, Uganda, and St. Anthony's Girls' College in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Additionally, the Indian schools, namely Sanskriti School, New Delhi, Sunbeam Lahartara & Sunbeam Ballia from Varanasi, Daly College, Indore, Shirdi Sai Public School Wing 1 and Wing 2 from Moradabad, Sanjivani International School from Shirdi, St. Xavier's Collegiate School, Kolkata, Trivandrum International School from Trivandrum, and schools from Bhubaneswar and Cuttack played an integral role in the event's proceedings.
The invigorating sessions at SAIMUN also witnessed Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya Schools from various districts of Odisha, including Mayurbhanj, Puri, Bolangir, Dhenkanal, Ganjam, Keojhar, Jajpur, and Angul actively participating in the 10 committees as per the stimulating agendas on global policies. The Shree Harsha Memorial School for deaf and dumb children showcased their talents and perspectives, highlighting the power of communication beyond words.
While addressing the delegates, Shri Naveen Patnaik, the Honourable Chief Minister of Odisha said, “As we stand here today, witnessing the convergence of brilliant minds from every corner of the globe at SAIMUN 2023, I am filled with immense joy and excitement. This gathering of delegates exemplifies the power of unity and collaboration in addressing our world's most pressing issues.”
Thanking the Hon’ble CM during the opening ceremony, Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson, SAI International Education Group said, “SAIMUN has always been a platform where students gather to explore and understand emerging global issues, engaging in meaningful discussions that shape their perspectives. This year will be no exception. With enthusiasm, we look forward to witnessing SAIMUN 2023 becoming a great success, empowering our young minds with knowledge, and fostering the skills needed for a brighter future.”
The Chief Minister's address resonated with the spirit of unity and diplomacy as delegates embarked on this incredible journey of exchange, collaboration, camaraderie & negotiation, embedding a deeper understanding of global issues and celebrating cultural diversity. With high hopes and excitement, SAIMUN 2023 turned out to be a transformative experience for all its participants.