Kolkata: SAI International Education Group
successfully organised and concluded the 14th edition of its flagship
international diplomacy conference, the SAI Model United Nations (SAIMUN)
2026, held on July 24 and 25, 2026, celebrating fourteen
years of fostering youth leadership and global understanding. Grounded in the
core philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam 'One World, One Family', the two-day
conference brought together more than 650 student delegates, including 30 international
participants, representing 14 countries (Liberia, South Sudan, Uganda,
Eswatini, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Libya, Madagascar, Syria, Nepal,
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and India). The event saw energetic representation from
23 prominent schools across India, providing delegates with a dynamic,
multicultural environment to engage in meaningful dialogue, appreciate diverse
perspectives, and cultivate the skills necessary for responsible global
leadership.
The inaugural ceremony on July 24 was graced by Guest Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner, alongside Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson of SAI International Education Group. Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Silpi Sahoo reflected on the vision of Founder Late Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, emphasizing that education must extend beyond traditional classrooms to nurture compassionate, future-ready global leaders who value collaboration over conflict and dialogue over division. Addressing the young leaders, Dr. Andrew Fleming encouraged students to cultivate negotiation, active listening, and empathy as three essential skills to navigate an interconnected world, emphasizing that meaningful international cooperation begins with mutual respect, informed debate, and the courage to embrace diverse viewpoints.
Throughout the conference, delegates
engaged in rigorous policy discussions and diplomatic negotiations across 11
intellectually engaging committees addressing key global and national
challenges.
Reinforcing the institution's commitment
to holistic development and community action beyond academic debates, SAIMUN
2026 organized a Corporate Social Responsibility tree plantation drive at
Sahaya Old Age Home, where delegates actively put environmental stewardship and
compassion into action. Additionally, the opening ceremony featured the
Felicitation of Toppers, honouring high-achieving students with the Top Score
Awards 2026 and Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo Global Entrepreneur Award.
The two-day international MUN concluded
on July 25 on an inspiring note, with renowned author and speaker Shri Suresh
Srinivasan gracing the valedictory session as Guest Speaker. Addressing the
delegates, Shri Srinivasan highlighted that SAIMUN prepares young individuals
for responsible global citizenship by encouraging them to engage with complex
realities and understand that true progress is built through cooperation. On
the final day, Dr. Silpi Sahoo reiterated that SAIMUN remains a transformative
journey nurturing critical thinking and empathy, expressing heartening
appreciation for the delegates' maturity, conviction, and mutual respect.
One of the highlights of the closing ceremony was the release of
the SAIMUN Tribune 2026, the conference's official newsletter. Capturing
the energy, ideas, and experiences of the two-day conference, the publication
served as a lasting record of the intellectual engagement and collaborative
spirit that defined this year's edition. The closing ceremony also celebrated
outstanding diplomacy and leadership by presenting prestigious awards to
exceptional student delegates and Executive Board (EB) members across all 11
committees for their stellar performance and guidance.
As the curtains came down on SAIMUN 2026, the
conference once again reinforced its standing as a premier platform for youth
diplomacy and international collaboration. By bringing together young
changemakers from diverse backgrounds to engage in informed dialogue and
collective problem-solving, SAIMUN continues to inspire a generation of future
leaders committed to building a more connected, compassionate, and peaceful
world.