SG WELCOME MESSAGE
TGIMUN 2023 WELCOMING REMARKS – by Secretary General
Esteemed delegates,
On behalf of the Coaches United Nations Simulation (CUNS) Secretariat, it is my great pleasure to warmly welcome you to the Fourth Edition of The Gambia International Model United Nations (TGIMUN) Conference, themed “Sustainable Development: A Catalyst for Change.” The conference is scheduled to take place in November 2023 in The Gambia, West Africa.
The theme of the conference underscores the importance of advancing development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. As the late great Kofi Annan once said, “We may have different religions, different languages, different colored skin, but we all belong to one human race.” This statement underscores the importance of international cooperation and unity towards achieving sustainable development. This goal is in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to achieve a sustainable future for all.
As we all know, sustainable development is a pressing issue facing our world today. We are at a critical juncture in human history, where our actions will determine the future of our planet. This year’s conference provides a platform for young leaders to develop their skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and critical thinking while delving into the critical issues that impede sustainable development, including poverty, inequality, climate change, digital divide, and conflict, and identifying actionable solutions that can foster sustainable and equitable growth. Delegates will engage in discussions on global issues related to sustainable development, such as climate change, access to quality education, and economic development.
We believe that the youth have a significant role to play in shaping a sustainable future, and TGIMUN provides a platform, through different committees, to hone and cultivate the necessary skills to address global challenges effectively. Our conference aims to equip participants with essential life skills such as leadership, public speaking, critical thinking, and diplomacy, which will enable them to become change agents in their communities.
As we embark on this journey, we are further reminded of the words of former UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, who said, “We don’t have a plan B because there is no planet B.” Therefore, it is imperative that we prioritize sustainable development to safeguard our planet’s future.
This year’s conference promises to be an enriching and rewarding experience for all participants. It is an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals from different parts of the world, learn from experienced diplomats, and contribute to shaping the future of our planet. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Let us all take this message to heart and work together towards creating a sustainable future for all.
We look forward to welcoming you to the 4th Edition of The Gambia International Model United Nations (TGIMUN) Conference 2023.
Best Regards,
Hon. Abdou Karim Badjie
Secretary General – CUNS