International Conference “Model UN – New Silk Road” 2024
On June 8, 2024, the international youth conference “Model UN – New Silk Road” 2024 began at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, dedicated to the role of youth in achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The conference focuses on climate action, gender equality, and the attainment of all 17 SDGs, and also marks the 90th anniversary of the university and the 10th anniversary of its status as a Global Hub of the United Nations Academic Impact program.
The event was opened by Yerkin Duyssenov, Chairperson of the Sustainable Development Committee, Member of the Board – Vice-Rector for Operational Activities of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. In his speech, he emphasized the increasing role of youth as a key element of human capital and the new demands placed on universities. Beyond providing academic knowledge, it has become crucial to prepare graduates capable of adapting to change and being ready for continuous development. Today’s students must be leaders ready to make unconventional decisions and respond to the challenges of the times.
«As a Global Hub of the UN Academic Impact program on sustainability since 2012, KazNU has actively supported the international youth platform Model UN ‘New Silk Road’ and has been working on implementing the Sustainable Development Goals through education, scientific research, and cooperation with international organizations» – noted Vice-Rector Duyssenov.
He also highlighted the successful operation of two UNESCO chairs at the university, the Academic Regional Resource and Information Center of the UN at the Faculty of International Relations, and the resumption of the Ban Ki-moon Institute for Sustainable Development.
The conference aims to teach students international diplomacy and develop skills for solving global problems using international law. Participants are addressing current issues such as climate action, gender equality, and the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Speakers at the conference included Dr. Rustem Kurmanguzhin, Associate Professor at Narxoz University, Ms. Michaela Friberg-Storey, UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan, Dr. Amir Piric, Acting Director of the UNESCO Cluster Office, Dr. Vlastimil Samek, Head of the UN Department of Global Communications, Dr. Serik Naryssov, Chairman of the Asian Diplomatic Society, Mr. Fayzulla Nurullayev, Consul of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Almaty, and Dr. Rafis Abazov, Vice-Rector of KazNARU.
During the conference, participants in three committees discussed the importance of education for human rights and reducing inequality, enhancing the resilience of Central Asian economies in the face of climate change, preserving cultural heritage, and strengthening the role of women.
At the end of the conference, all active participants were awarded certificates and commemorative prizes. The conference demonstrated the importance of youth contributions to solving global problems and strengthening international cooperation.
