Bhubaneswar: The 14th edition of SAI Model United Nations (SAIMUN) 2026 began today at SAI International School, bringing together more than 650 student delegates from 14 countries and 23 schools across India to deliberate on pressing global and national issues.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner, as Guest of Honour. Welcoming the delegates, Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson, SAI International Education Group, said SAIMUN embodies the vision of the institution’s Founder, Late Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, to nurture compassionate, globally conscious leaders.
“Fourteen years ago, he envisioned SAIMUN as a platform where young minds could engage in meaningful dialogue and lead with empathy and integrity. Every edition strengthens our resolve to create future-ready global citizens who believe in collaboration over conflict and dialogue over division,” she said.Dr. Andrew Fleming emphasized the importance of youth-led diplomacy, urging students to embrace dialogue, negotiation, and empathy. “Platforms like SAIMUN remind us that the future of international cooperation rests in the hands of young people who are willing to listen, debate, and lead with empathy,” he said.
Global Participation
Delegates from Liberia, South Sudan, Uganda, Eswatini, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Libya, Madagascar, Syria, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and India are participating, creating a vibrant multicultural environment. Among the 23 participating schools are PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalayas, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, DAV Public Schools, Pinegrove School Himachal Pradesh, Sunbeam School Varanasi, KIIT International School, ODM Public School, and host SAI International School and SAI International Residential School.
11 Committees To Debate Key Global Issues
SAIMUN 2026 features 11 committees where students will simulate diplomacy and policymaking. The agenda includes:SOCHUM: Youth loneliness, mental health and social isolation in the digital era ECOSOC: Workforce transformation and inclusive growth in the age of AI-driven automation UNSC: Impact of the US–Iran armed confrontation on international peace and security UNHRC: Human rights challenges from misinformation, disinformation and deepfakes UNCSW: Bridging the digital gender divide through equal access and online safety UNEP: Environmental damage from rare earth and critical mineral extraction WFP: Combating global food insecurity amid conflict, climate change and economic instability UNESCO: Illicit trafficking and repatriation of stolen cultural heritage WTO: Reforming multilateral trade to prevent trade wars Indian Parliament: India’s civil aviation crisis IPC: Reporting and ethical coverage of proceedings CSR And Awards.
As part of its community outreach, delegates participated in a tree plantation drive at Sahaya Old Age Home.
The opening day also saw the felicitation of academic toppers with Top Score Awards 2026 to Tarun Tapan Bhuyan – Humanities, Tamanna Bal – Science, and Vatsal Agarwal – Commerce. Nayantara Karthikeyan received the Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo Global Entrepreneur Award for innovation.
Delegate Voices
Abraham Danel from Liberia said, “It is my first MUN. I’m very excited because it is all about bringing students together and discussing international policies.”
Betul Hermez from Syria added, “Every year the conference just gets bigger and better. This time it’s so cool!”
Chol Malual Achiek Cath from South Sudan said, “I really like the way they organise it here. The opening ceremony reminded me that if we work as a team together, all will be well in the end.”The conference will continue on July 25 with committee sessions and diplomatic negotiations, upholding the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One World, One Family.
