DUMUNA

The Dhaka University National Model United Nations (DUNMUN) held its sixth session at the near century old campus of University of Dhaka from December 18 to 21, 2017. The conference was attended by more than half a thousand youths from both home and abroad to practice the art of diplomacy, public speaking, negotiation skills, debate and leadership activities for four days. Under the theme "Towards Global Amity: Cooperation for inclusive future", the conference has been able to encourage youths to follow the objective of the United Nations for achieving global welfare.

Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) of University of Dhaka, Professor Dr Nasreen Ahmad, attended the inauguration ceremony on December 18 as the Chief Guest. In her speech she mentions that, the best way to ensure peace in the world is through diplomacy and negotiation. She was followed by Nahim Razzaq, MP, member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Youth and Sports, who stressed the significance of active participation of Dhaka University and its students in national and global affairs, wishing all the young diplomats good luck in their journey.

 The significance of the ceremony was conveyed by Moderator of Dhaka University Model United Nations Association (DUMUNA), Professor Dr Delwar Hossain, who referred to the impact DUNMUN has had since its inception. The ceremony was also glorified by the presence of Sudipto Mukerjee, Country Director of UNDP Bangladesh; and Mohammad Moniruzzaman, National Information Officer of UNIC Dhaka.

The four day long intense debate and discussion was supplemented by the "Global Village" programme as well as the famed "Cultural Night" on December 19 and 20, creating a cross cultural platform for participants to interact with each other.

Nasrul Hamid, Honourable State Minister at the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, motivated the youth present in the hall by being the Chief Guest of the closing ceremony of the event. Instead of delivering any traditional speech, he decided to answer the queries of the young minds. The other guests who were present in the closing ceremony were UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, Mia Seppo; and former Ambassador of People's Republic of Bangladesh, Farooq Sobhan. The closing of DUNMUN 2017 was followed by a gala dinner.

Hundreds of students from India, Nepal, Afghanistan, Qatar and other countries came to join the conference as executive board members and delegates. Every year, DUNMUN brings about memorable experiences for all. It has been a place where some have forged unbreakable bonds and for others it has been somewhere to meet new people. All in all, it was a journey that everyone partook in, together. Besides the MUN experience and the cultural amalgamation between the students of home and abroad, DUNMUN has presented another gift to all participants- unforgettable memories to cherish forever.