#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #OKAMUN #Model UN

OKAMUN 2025: A Milestone for Okayama University

On December 5, 2025, Okayama University hosted its first Model United Nations (MUN), named OKAMUN 2025, at the Tsushima Campus. This event marked a significant milestone for the university, which is headquartered in Okayama City, and was attended by over 60 participants, including students from the university's English Diplomacy and Advanced English MUN courses, international students from 12 different countries, and members of informal MUN circles.

The theme of this inaugural session was women's issues, a topic of great significance across the globe. Participants stepped into the roles of representatives from various countries, engaging in thoughtful speeches, negotiations, and debates entirely in English. The event culminated in the passage of eight resolutions by committees focusing on: protecting women and girls from gender-based violence; promoting women's economic participation; and enhancing women's roles in political processes and peacebuilding initiatives.

The success of OKAMUN 2025 not only provided valuable practical experience for students honing their diplomatic skills but also served as a precursor to larger upcoming MUN events like the Japan University English Model United Nations (JUEMUN) in 2026 and the National Model United Nations (NMUN) in Barcelona. Participants developed essential skills and knowledge in diplomacy, policymaking, and collaboration, reflecting the university's commitment to global engagement and education.

Among the highlights was the impactful presentation by Raika Shirahama, a first-year student in the science department, who served as the chair. She was supported by fellow students, including Nayuko Izumi, a fourth-year student in the Global Discovery Program, and Bianca Walczak-Coelho, also a fourth-year Global Discovery student, who took on pivotal roles during the proceedings.

International students like Oliwia Trawka from the EPOK program eloquently represented their countries, advocating for their national positions and engaging with fellow delegates in pursuit of collective solutions to complex global issues. Another notable presentation came from Kanon Suetsugu, a first-year law student, who passionately articulated her committee's stance.

As this inaugural event comes to a close, the anticipation builds for future initiatives by Okayama University, a research institution characterized by its regional focus and unique contributions to global education. The university actively promotes the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and has previously garnered recognition through special awards for its efforts towards sustainability.

In a forward-looking statement, the academic community at Okayama University looks ahead to further enhancing global collaborative opportunities, gaining recognition as a stronghold of research excellence. As the institution continues to innovate and push the boundaries of education, it promises to foster the global citizens of tomorrow, equipped to face the challenges of an interconnected world.

This first model United Nations was not just an academic exercise; it was a glimpse into the future, a future where students are empowered to drive change and contribute to the global dialogue on pressing issues, reaffirming Okayama University's dedication to nurturing unique and impactful leaders.

Stay tuned for more updates on the university’s ongoing projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing its role as a distinguished research university. As we look to the future, the impact of events like OKAMUN will surely resonate far beyond our campus, influencing not just our students, but also the broader global community.