Swostishree Gurukul Model United Nations (SGMUN) 4.0 officially commenced on July 04, 2025, bringing together over 30 schools and more than 40 sponsors for three days of intense debate and deliberation on pressing global issues. The opening ceremony, held this morning, set the stage for what promises to be an impactful event for young leaders from across Nepal and beyond over 3 days.
After three successful iterations, the student-led SGMUN 4.0 continues its mission to provide a significant platform for motivated youth to engage in simulated UN sessions, creating space for intellectual, social, and ethical growth.
The opening ceremony featured inspiring chief guests, from prominent figures dedicated to youth empowerment and global progress. Mr. Chewan Rai, Managing Director of Che&Co, and Ms. Reshmi Sunar, Programme Associate, Diversity and Inclusion at UNFPA Nepal, graced the event as Chief Guests to motivate the delegates. Chief guest and keynote speaker, Ms. Simrika Sharma, Head of the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Kathmandu, delivered the keynote address.
Emphasizing the significance of youth in shaping the future, Ms. Sharma highlighted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the UN and its 70th year in Nepal. She underscored that "diplomacy is not just about suits and meetings; it's about meeting and communicating with people you don't agree with." She added, "At the UN, we believe that young people are not just the future, but a partnership. Your voice matters, and with young people like you, the Genz, what you prioritize, from already starting with entrepreneurial journeys to participating in greater discourses like this, I see hope."
Ms. Sunar shared a deeply personal and motivating message with the delegates, reflecting on her own MUN experience a decade ago. “I think MUN builds you beyond public speaking; I discovered a version of myself who I didn't know existed." She expressed, "It's young people like you taking a global stage, organizing, bringing 40 sponsors to a space like this." Ms. Sunar concluded by emphasizing the importance of human rights beginning with how individuals treat each other, asserting, "When young people can thrive, a community can thrive. I hope you challenge what you see.”
Adhish Binod Pokharel, a Grade 12 student and Director Secretary General of SGMUN 4.0, who has been involved since the first iteration, welcomed guests and first-time delegates with utmost gratitude in his speech. He was joined by Zenith Karki, a Grade 10 student and Deputy General Secretary. Swostishree Gurukul delegates have a history of achieving high standards, including participating in WIMUN in New York and attending the UN headquarters.
In her vote of thanks, Ms. Neha KC, Principal of Swostishree Gurukul, lauded SGMUN as "a platform that brings together passion, diplomacy, and the power of young voices." She extended a warm welcome to all delegates and expressed gratitude to the many sponsors who made the event possible, reiterating Swostishree Gurukul's commitment to cultivating critical thinking and global awareness among its students.
SGMUN 4.0 will continue until July 6, with delegates engaging in in-depth discussions and collaborative problem-solving, further solidifying its reputation as a premier platform for youth engagement and leadership development in Nepal.
