Following the celebration of its 21st anniversary, Tema International School (TIS) proudly hosted the TISMUN 24 (Tema International School Model United Nations) conference from 10–12 October 2024. This three-day event, held in collaboration with 19 schools across Ghana, was a testament to the school’s commitment to its founding vision of nurturing global leaders and fostering meaningful dialogue on global issues.
Under the theme “Achieving Fairness in Global Development: Creating Equal Opportunities for Sustainable Change,” TISMUN 24 provided a platform for 309 student delegates from participating schools, including Al-Rayan International School, American International School, Apple Valley International School, Ashaiman Number 2 JHS, Association International School, Aves International Academy, Baatsona JHS B, Beacon College International, Brainy Bairn School, British International School, Dodi International School, DPS, Ghana International School, International Community School, Legacy Girls’ College, Morgan International Community School, SOS-Hermann Gmeiner International College, St Nicholas Charity Foundation School, and Tema International School (the host), to engage in enriching and thought-provoking discussions.
The conference opened with a vibrant flag procession, a celebration of diversity and unity, as described by TISMUN Secretary General, Aisha Hussein, a Grade 12 student of Tema International School. Aisha noted that the opening ceremony embodied the uniqueness of each participating school while highlighting their collective commitment to global change.
During his welcome address, the Principal of Tema International School, Dr Ken Darvall, emphasised the invaluable opportunities that conferences like TISMUN offer young people. He shared his concern about mobile phones being a potential distraction, urging participants to focus on the development of key MUN skills such as research, public speaking, debating, writing, teamwork, critical thinking, and leadership. His remarks resonated with the audience, highlighting the importance of these life skills in shaping the next generation of global leaders.
The keynote addresses delivered by His Excellency Edmond Mukala N’gouemo, the UNESCO Representative to Ghana and Mali, and Retired Superintendent Mrs Effia Tenge, Director of Public Engagement at the Parliament of Ghana, emphasised the power of youth to ignite meaningful change in the world. Their words resonated deeply with the participants, who left eager to contribute towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The atmosphere was electric throughout the conference, and the participants’ energy was palpable. Several students from other schools expressed how TISMUN provided a unique opportunity to network with like-minded peers, exchange ideas, and gain real-world experience of how the Model United Nations functions. A teacher from St Nicholas School in Tema New Town, invited as an observer, remarked, “This opportunity is one of a kind, and we are so happy that TIS invited us to be part of this. We leave eager to establish an MUN club in our school.”
TISMUN 24 featured 11 committees representing key international organisations, such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), Economic and Financial Committee (ECOFIN), United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Security Council, UNICEF, Crisis Committees A and B, the Arab League, African Union (AU) – Pan-African Parliament (PAP), NATO & BRICS, and the United Nations Women. Through these platforms, students tackled critical global issues, developing solutions that reflect fairness and equity in global development.
Model United Nations conferences like TISMUN 24 provides an unparalleled opportunity for students to hone essential life skills, including:
- Research and analytical skills: Gaining an in-depth understanding of complex issues.
- Public speaking and debating: Articulating thoughts and arguments in a global context.
- Leadership and teamwork: Collaborating with peers to negotiate and reach consensus.
- Global awareness: Exploring pressing international challenges through the lens of diplomacy.
The event served as a powerful reminder of TIS’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of leaders who can positively impact the world. As the school reflects on its 21-year journey, TISMUN 24 stands as a shining example of the values and vision established by its founders.
For more information about TISMUN and upcoming events, please visit the school’s website at www.tis.edu.gh.
