Mirella Pandjaitan
May 13, 2026
When a school makes space to introduce a ‘Model United Nations’, it unlocks a dynamic and immersive experience that equips a student with critical skills and knowledge that extend far beyond the traditional classroom. British School Jakarta (BSJ) spearheaded the shift precisely 20 years ago.
Academic competition and a learning space that refines, empowers, and catalyses engagement in global politics are mutually reinforcing within the BSJ Model United Nations Club (BSJ MUN). From 10th to 12th April 2026, BSJ MUN’s grandest conference to date involved 300 participants from 20+ schools across Indonesia, organised and led by its 15 Secretariat members. It honed the theme “Architects of Tomorrow: From the Rubble of the Past to the Foundations of Our Future Generations”.
BSJ’s MUN Coordinator, Regina Tantri, reckoned this year’s theme was highly substantial for students, emphasising that “it empowers them to equally be observers of global challenges and see themselves as active contributors to the future; as individuals who can make thoughtful decisions, engage responsibly with global issues, and work towards building a more just and sustainable world.”
The Secretariat demonstrated unwavering commitment since December 2025. Regular meetings were held to coordinate conference logistics, including dividing tasks such as arranging interview sessions with prospective chairs over the school breaks, communicating with external vendors and sponsors, designing merchandise, and managing the Instagram account. The main challenge fell on logistics coordination and effective communication among many parties beyond the core Secretariat team. Luckily, transparency and support were maintained solidly.
Behind the adrenaline and the thrill from the heated discussions with other delegates, Amanda (Y12) was eager to venture into the high-stakes arena of public speaking. The BSJ MUN 2026 Secretary General believes that students are trained to think critically, communicate persuasively, and adapt to collaborating under pressure. “Whether through negotiating, synthesising research, or debating with other delegates, these are an essential set of transferable skills applicable to scenarios beyond international relations,” she noted. In Amanda’s case, she became more analytical and articulate in navigating complex issues.
The Secretariat faced hectic days leading up to the conference, as Amanda recalled. “Our 20th conference truly was a milestone for all of us. As we usually invite RLC students from one centre to our conference, this year, we extended our invitation to another refugee centre, upholding the values of BSJ MUN as an inclusive learning hub,” she pointed out.
According to Amanda, the conference allowed delegates to collaborate extensively to propose a diverse range of solutions, combining technology, governance, and international cooperation. Delegates proposed measures, such as using AI and digital surveillance to combat illegal wildlife trafficking, establishing new UN bodies to coordinate humanitarian aid and political dialogue in crisis regions, and creating regulatory frameworks for emerging global issues.
One of the innovative solutions discussed at the conference was the Lunar Benefit Fund and Data-to-Lunar Knowledge Exchange Portal (DTE-LKEP) suggested by the delegates in the UNOOSA council. This initiative requires countries and private companies engaged in lunar resource extraction to contribute a portion of their profits and share scientific data with developing nations. By promoting both financial redistribution and knowledge-sharing, it ensures more equitable access to space opportunities and prevents future monopolisation by more developed countries.
The participation of distinguished guest speakers remains a defining feature of the BSJ MUN conference. This year, a diverse group of professionals, including career diplomat and ambassador Tomas Ferko, former ambassador Randolph Mank, and business and advocacy leaders Reyhan Fachry and Melisa Hendrawati. They shared their personal stories and expertise on global issues; meanwhile, delegates gained relevant insights correlating with international relations, industrial development, and humanitarian efforts. Several delegates benefited from the guest speakers’ interactive workshops curated to stimulate thought and evaluation of their approaches.
At BSJ, students are encouraged to take action as a key takeaway from the conference, particularly through Y7-11 Service as Actions and Y12-13 Creativity, Activity, and Services (CAS) activities. Regina explained that they can translate their learning into impact by researching global issues and working with organisations such as Save the Children, RYMUN, and the Refugee Learning Centre (RLC) Cisarua, all of which were present at the conference. “Many have already done this by supporting refugee learners through tutoring, workshops, and mentoring,” she continued.
Regina has noticed the club's exponential growth and student development as time stretches by; over 70 students from Year 7–12 are actively involved in this lively and supportive community. “Students have grown in confidence and developed key skills, such as critical thinking, public speaking, collaboration, and meaningful connections with others. It’s especially rewarding to see them become more confident in expressing themselves and engaging thoughtfully with world issues,” she added.
Including Amanda. She redefined her perception of leadership due to her role in this BSJ MUN conference. “I have learnt that leadership isn't about having all the ideas for others to execute but nurturing an environment to empower others to have agency over their own work,” she expressed.
The Y12 student also served as one of the weekly MUN ECA’s Skills Leaders by planning sessions to help delegates nurture their skills in public speaking, grow their passion, and expand their international relations knowledge. With her guidance, multiple students garnered top recognition, which proved that while drive and labour are vital, consistent practice and meticulous preparation form the true foundation of success.
The BSJ MUN Club is deeply invested in further progress and transformation for the foreseeable future. On behalf of the club, Amanda hopes to send a delegation to several local conferences in Jakarta in the next couple of weeks as a means to stay active before preparing for other international conferences in the next academic year, while anticipating the BSJ MUN 2027 (clues might be visible on @bsjmun).
“Join MUN!” she exclaimed. “Whether you choose to join an external conference or try to sign up for our club, you truly form meaningful connections with new friends and make lasting memories during these conferences. Public speaking may seem daunting at first, but it's a necessary skill that you will need to use at some point. So, why not start now, in an environment that pushes you to grow and supports you along the way?”
