For the 20th time since the first MUNA event held in 1999, we were fortunate to be able to hold MUNA in the magnificent Legislative Assembly Chamber of the Victorian Parliament House. We should never underestimate the impact on the students of this elegant historical building, the atmosphere of the place, and the fact that the students are actually sitting and working in the seats normally occupied by our lawmakers.This year 38 teams participated representing 38 countries in five blocs that are grouped according to the geopolitical and economic development stages of the countries. There were a number of complex issues and resolutions debated over the two days. There were very few interruptions to debate which resulted in eight resolutions being debated. Costuming was of a high standard with many of the teams making an effort to represent the national dress of their allocated country. Rotaractors in their red shirts working as diplomatic couriers added a lot of colour and movement to the event. Catering satisfied the needs of all of the youngsters, and the visitors were able to share in the morning and afternoon tea delicacies.
The team from Box Hill High School, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Forest Hill and representing Jordan was judged as the best performing team of the weekend. They will be attending the National MUNA event held in Canberra in August. The team from Presbyterians Ladies’ College representing North Korea and sponsored by the Rotary Club of Box Hill were the runners up. This year the students agreed with the judges and voted for the Jordan delegates as the best contributing team to the debate. The prize for best costumes went to the delegates from North Korea, from Presbyterian Ladies’ College. The District Governor’s encouragement prize went to the students from St Bede’s College sponsored by the Rotary Club of Dingley Village representing Pakistan for effort and participation. The team from Salesian College, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Oakleigh and representing Thailand received the prize for submitting the best student resolution which was debated as the first resolution on Sunday morning.
2018 MUNA received strong support from the majority of the Clubs in the District, with schools also very keen to take part in this event. This program is viewed as part of leadership training for many of the schools. There were queries from schools well after the application closing date wanting to participate in MUNA. Teachers from these schools all stated they would be working with nearby Rotary clubs to ensure they are able to have their teams registered in time for 2019 MUNA.
Andrew Guillaume
Chair, D9810 MUNA Committee