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Second MUNNAM Conference discuss importance of ICT

Welda Mouton from the United Nations Information Centre, Anthea Basson National Information Officer and Stanley Shanapinda, CEO of CRAN together with learners who took part in the MUNNAM Conference. (Photograph contributed)

Welda Mouton from the United Nations Information Centre, Anthea Basson National Information Officer and Stanley Shanapinda, CEO of CRAN together with learners who took part in the MUNNAM Conference. (Photograph contributed)

The second Model United Nations High School Conference held last week saw High School learners from Windhoek, Rehoboth and Tsumeb deliberating on how Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can be used to foster sustainable development in developing countries.
During the opening ceremony, The Minister of Education, Honorable David Namwandi made reference to the fact that the world is continuously changing, and we face global dilemmas and crises that impact all of us. Honourable Namwandi highlighted the importance of fostering young minds as the international community increasingly recognises the power of young people to change the world.”
Learners were engaged in two days of deliberation on the topic, representing their countries and their national ICT policies. On day two, the learners drafted notable resolutions. Some of the key solutions the learners devised included: making access to information and technology part of basic human rights; for African countries to unite in their efforts to supply their nations with access to education through new technology; and the standardisation of ICT throughout the world.
After the committee voted, a resolution was passed and it was time to announce the winners and recognise the accomplishments of the learners. The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) and MTN Business, as the main sponsors, offered prizes to the best delegation, best speaker, best school and best delegate. CRAN specifically honoured, Hijelekua Shovaleka of Immanuel Shifidi Secondary School for his “Outstanding Model UN Ambition” with a Blackberry Playbook (tablet).
CRAN was particularly excited to see the outcome of the debate as they regulate the ICT industry and hope to inspire young, creative minds to think about sustainable development and the infinite possibilities within ICT. Head of Communications and External Relations, Lelanie Basson, delivered an inspiring talk during the opening ceremony, making reference to the movie starring Will Smith “In pursuit of happiness”. “You must realise that who you have demonstrated up until today will have little to do with who you can become a year from today,” Basson stated.
She explained how the students should never let go of their dreams, in spite of any challenges they may face in life. “When that time comes where you have achieved that goal you have set out to get, you will help those around you realise that perhaps it’s also possible for them,” she concluded.
Model United Nations Namibia is an initiative by the United Nations Information Centre Windhoek, where learners spent two full days representing their various countries as diplomats. The conference provides an important and pragmatic approach to understanding global issues where the learners can take part in role-playing.

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