Southern Highlands Model UN assembly

The Southern Highlands Model United Nations Assembly (MUNA) was an opportunity for students to come together and debate global issues at the Wingecarribee Shire Council Chambers.

Issues were debated from the perspective of different countries and included the equal rights of women, the eradication of poverty and the conflict in the Syrian Arab Republic.

First prize was awarded to Southern Highlands Christian School who represented Russia.

In second place was Bowral High School who represented South Africa and third place was Oxley College who represented Nigeria.

Southern Highlands Christian School will go on to compete at the national MUNA at Parliament House in Canberra.

Southern Highlands Christian School student Mabel Chalmers said the program equipped participants with the ability to speak about international issues.

"When you work globally, you have to understand other people's point of view and adjust your point of view to be respectful of theirs," Ms Chalmers said.

"People should definitely get involved with this because it's a lot of fun and it helps you fine-tune your skills in debating."

Ms Chalmers had previously participated in the national MUNA competition and found it to be a worthwhile experience.

"It's a lot of fun meeting people from around Australia and debating with a diverse group of people" she said.

Students represented several UN member countries including Brazil, South Africa, Italy, the Republic of Kiribati, Russia, Iran, Nigeria and Canada.

The event was hosted by members of the Rotary Club of Berrima, Rotary Club of Bowral-Mittagong, Rotary Club of Moss Vale and the Southern Highlands Rotaract.

MUNA aims to give participants an international understanding and the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the workings of the United Nations and its member nations.