Students from Davis College once again held the Davis College Model United Nations (DCMUN) in Cork City Hall last week, from January 23rd to 26th. This student-led event provided a platform for young minds to engage in debates on pressing global issues. Over four days, participants assumed the role of diplomats, representing different nations to address real world challenges.
Now in its ninth year, this prestigious event is the biggest of its kind in the country, hosting over 500 delegates from various secondary schools in Ireland and abroad. Organised by teachers and students from Davis College, DCMUN has gained national and international recognition. Students from Davis College led the organisation and running of DCMUN, with a combination of chief staff, delegates, admin staff and the press team ensuring the smooth running of the event. Noah Cahill was appointed Secretary General for this year, and was joined by Saoirse Onyemekeihia as Deputy Secretary General and Emily Ramsamy-Guerin as Chief of Staff. With nearly 70 students from Davis College involved, their capacity for organisation and leadership was evident.
Each student is tasked with researching their assigned delegation and the issues for debate.  They must then formulate a resolution which is then debated upon by all delegates. Topics of discussion among others, included the use of Artificial Intelligence in the workplace and educational settings, equitable marriage laws, the Geneva Convention, and the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Delegates deliberated on strategies to combat these global issues that we are faced with today.
Hosting the event in Cork City Hall not only brought global issues to the forefront but also encouraged local and national engagement. Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr. Colette Finn, and World Wise Global Schools Representative Katie Chapman, delivered empowering speeches to the students on Wednesday. They were followed by the keynote speaker, Dr Daithí Ó Murchú, an international consultant and expert advisor in education. He delivered a compelling and thought-provoking speech, highlighting the importance of youth engagement in global affairs. This keynote address set the tone for the students, motivating them to actively engage in constructive dialogue and diplomacy throughout the event.