What is a Model United Nations conference?

Model United Nations is a co-curricular activity that invites students to model the work of the United Nations and develop problem-solving and debate skills in real-life challenges. Beginning in Grade 7, ASV students may take part in up to four different MUN programs, including VALMUN, ASV’s own MUN conference, that takes place in December

Educational Goals

Being a part of VALMUN teaches students to:

• Debate issues concerning the world today

• Gain confidence in public speaking

• Meet many students from all over the world

• Work in the field of diplomacy

In addition, students have the opportunity to work with other students from a variety of American and international schools from different cities and countries.

VALMUN's Philosophy and Rules

Students will role-play as delegates representing a country or NGO in a specific committee of the United Nations. They will have to research their country, investigate international issues, lobby, debate, and elaborate solutions to global problems.

The delegates that are considered to be most contributing are given awards, but VALMUN emphasizes the importance of collaboration rather than competition, for one of its aims is to promote the idea of peaceful problem solving. Throughout the conference, delegates will make use of critical thinking and communication skills, such as public speaking, research, listening, negotiating, conflict resolution, problem analysis and technical writing.