HEKMA University hosted the 7th annual Dar Al-Hekma Model United Nations (DAHMUN) Conference with former Shoura Council member Dr. Thoraya Ahmed Obaid as the chief guest. The theme of the conference was "Road to Development: Hollow Promises or Concrete Plans", which helped the delegates develop a deeper understanding of the world situation and understand how government decisions can have a social, economic and political impact. More than 300 delegates from 25 local and international educational institutions took part in the 3-day event at Prince Bandar auditorium on the university's campus. The delegates experienced animated discussions, negotiations and conflict resolutions on global issues. In addition, they discussed topics that are aligned with the Saudi Vision 2030 such as: "Building a Better World for Muslims", "Clean and Constant Water for All", "Sustainable Development: A Possible Reality?" and "The War Against Drugs". The Model United Nations is a simulation of the United Nations and offers the young delegates the opportunity to experience what it is to be a leader and a policy-maker. The conference is the initiative of the MUN club members in Dar Al-Hekma and was led by Dr. Chaman Rahim, founder and adviser of the club. The club started in 2007 with just 25 people and now has over 120 members. "As the founder and adviser of this group, I am happy that during this short span, the Model United Nations has grown immensely in popularity and esteem. Today it hosts its own conference offering an excellent opportunity for students to tackle real life conflicts in a realistic setup where they will discuss real-life events. I congratulate all my officers and students for their dedication and hard work in organizing this Model United Nations Conference," said Rahim during the opening ceremony. Dr. Obaid, a former undersecretary general of the United Nations and former executive director of the UN Population Fund, said, "It's a great honor to address you as members of the Model UN; you are the leaders who will have an understanding of the world around you with the skills to become world leaders in your own rights, and that is exactly what this esteemed university is training you to achieve and striving to achieve." Dr. Suhair H. Al Qurashi, president of Dar Al-Hekma University, talked about the importance of inviting leaders to the university. "Exposing our students to leaders such as Dr. Thoraya Obaid inspires them to work hard and be proactive so one day they too can become leaders and members of the Shoura Council or United Nations or, who knows, maybe ministers." Students, who represent countries as "delegates" in Model United Nations prepare draft resolutions, plot strategy, negotiate with supporters and adversaries, resolve conflicts, and intensely navigate the United Nations rules of procedures. Duaa Amer, DAH student and secretary-general of DAHMUN Club, declared the conference open with Dr. Rahim on Dec. 5. Amer said she learned a lot after joining the club and praised Dar Al-Hekma saying, "Dar Al-Hekma offers great opportunities for those who work hard. A diverse community that challenges your solid ideas and a door to great opportunities for those who are willing to give, that is the spirit of Dar Al-Hekma." — SG
