UC students participate in Model United Nations simulation and debate artificial intelligence

In the first edition of the Model United Nations at the University of Coimbra (UC MUN), Pedro Falcone opened the session as Secretary-General to over 110 students who will spend three days taking on the roles of UN delegates, committees and journalists. They will debate 'Artificial Intelligence: The Impact on Future Society' in a simulation of United Nations sessions.

Pedro Falcone emphasised the importance of youth-oriented initiatives such as UC MUN. "In today's world, with all its problems, it's crucial that we, as young people, are aware of our role as problem solvers. The earlier we get involved, the better prepared we'll be to promote critical thinking and drive social change".

The Secretary General of the United Nations Association (UNA) Portugal, Mário Parra da Silva, stated that each member present "should defend and strive to represent the perspective of his or her country, never forgetting that this distinguished Assembly represents, first and foremost, our planet and humanity. The interests of humanity should be paramount. Consequently, the head of UNA Portugal hopes that "participation in these processes will provide the participants with a more universal, integrated, consensual and respectful perspective as they grow into adulthood".

UC MUN is a guided simulation of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, which aims to build and maintain strong links between the UN and Model UN participants. Over three days, more than 110 participants will have the opportunity to represent a United Nations committee and improve their public speaking, argumentation, writing, and research skills.

More information about UC MUN is available in Portuguese at www.uc.pt/studenthub/ucmun/