The Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN) Qatar opened in Doha with more than 1,700 students from 87 nationalities taking part in it. Qatar Shell has been the sole sponsor of THIMUN in Qatar for 12 consecutive years.
The conference aims to promote the development of leadership skills amongst high school students through discussion, debates and negotiations that address real-world problems and pressing issues.
Mohamed Abu Jbara, manager, corporate social responsibility at Qatar Shell, delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony. “Qatar Shell is very proud to have supported this outstanding programme for 12 years since it first started as the Qatar MUN Programme then became The Hague International Model United Nations Programme five years ago. THIMUN touches both human and social pillars of the Qatar National Vision 2030 which we strongly support, through its focus on education, teamwork, and leadership.”
Lisa Martin, head of THIMUN Qatar, said, “THIMUN Qatar is unique because it is a student led programme with high school students running the conference for their peers.
The event allows students to discuss challenging international issues, but perhaps more importantly, by allowing students to organise this event, it is an important opportunity for students to practise real-world leadership skills on an international scale.”
During the conference, students participated in a wide variety of committees, including a general assembly, disarmament, human rights and environment committee. THIMUN Qatar also hosts a special committee and advisory panel that focuses on major issues in the host region allowing for a unique opportunity for youth to collaborate on current global issues.