Kathmandu, June 19, 2026: The fifth edition of the Swostishree Gurukul Model United Nations (SGMUN 5.0) has officially commenced in Kathmandu, bringing together 210 student delegates from more than 30 schools across Nepal for a three-day conference focused on diplomacy, leadership, and global problem-solving.
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Organized by Swostishree Gurukul IB Continuum School, SGMUN 5.0 serves as more than a simulation of the United Nations. It provides a platform where students engage in meaningful discussions on contemporary global challenges while developing essential skills such as public speaking, critical thinking, negotiation, teamwork, and collaborative decision-making.
At a time when Nepal’s education sector is increasingly emphasizing competency-based learning, conferences like SGMUN are creating opportunities for students to move beyond traditional classroom instruction and participate in experiential learning. Through committee debates and policy discussions, delegates gain exposure to diverse perspectives and learn how diplomacy can be used to address complex issues.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Principal Ms. Neha K.C. reflected on the remarkable growth of the conference since its inception, noting that what began five years ago as a vision has evolved into a vibrant national platform involving hundreds of delegates and numerous schools from across the country.
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Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker Dr. Santosh Khadka, Professor and Chair of the Graduate Program at California State University, Northridge, emphasized that Model United Nations is not merely a competition or extracurricular activity. He highlighted that MUN experiences help shape compassionate, globally aware individuals by encouraging students to step beyond their comfort zones and understand multiple perspectives.
The conference also welcomed distinguished guests, including Ms. Swarna Tamrakar, President of the Nepal-US Alumni Network (NUSAN), and Mr. Udgum Khadka, Executive Director of Communiversity at King’s College. Both encouraged students to lead with empathy and purpose and to translate their ideas into meaningful action.
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During the event, Swostishree Gurukul announced a new collaboration with King’s College under the “Championing Entrepreneurship” program for Grades 11 and 12. The initiative aims to help students transform innovative ideas and diplomatic thinking into practical, community-based solutions.
Former delegate Grace Khadka shared how participation in MUN had positively influenced her personal growth, highlighting the importance of collaboration, critical thinking, and communication skills developed through such experiences.
The conference will continue with intensive committee sessions over the next two days and conclude with final resolutions and an awards ceremony on Sunday.
Through SGMUN 5.0, Swostishree Gurukul IB Continuum School is reinforcing the message that education in the twenty-first century extends beyond academic achievement. Platforms that foster leadership, empathy, communication, and global citizenship are becoming increasingly important in preparing students for higher education and future careers in an interconnected world.
